(a) The water district board may select and appoint a general manager who shall hold office at the pleasure of the board. Such manager shall be chosen on the basis of administrative ability and shall hold such college degree or degrees and experience as the board may deem appropriate. The general manager shall have such duties and responsibilities as shall be assigned by the board in the management of the water supply and distribution system. The board shall obtain for the general manager a surety bond conditioned upon the faithful performance of the manager’s duties.

(b) The water district board may promulgate and adopt a retirement plan for all of its officers, employees, servants and agents.