Every inmate in a public institution in all counties of the first class not having a charter form of government, except those incarcerated in a jail, correctional or penal institution, who is not a pauper, shall pay to such county a reasonable compensation for occupancy, nursing care, medicine or attendance, in such amount as determined by the county commission, provided that it shall be lawful for such county, to which such person shall become chargeable, to sue for and receive any real or personal estate and take charge and dispose of any personal property belonging to such person and apply the proceeds, or so much thereof, as is necessary to defray the cost of support and maintenance of such person.