Gov. Code, § 40501

It is hereby declared to be the policy of the State that to promote the public interest, economy, health, safety, education and general welfare of the cities, cities and counties, and counties in the State and of the residents and property owners therein, the people be empowered to acquire, own, maintain, operate, improve and dispose of surplus real properties of the United States which are within or contiguous to said cities, cities and counties, and counties. Because of the unique problem presented in so doing and of the facts and circumstances relative thereto, the creation of an authority within and separate and distinct from said cities, cities and counties, and counties is necessary.