Said board shall have power to make all suitable provisions for the relief, maintenance and support of all indigent persons within said cities, and to make suitable provisions for the care and maintenance of the sick dependents and those who are unable to support themselves; to enforce the laws of the state, the ordinances of said cities, in regard to the indigent, and to make such rules and regulations in the conduct of its business not inconsistent with the laws of the state of Missouri, and the ordinances of said cities; to recommend to the common council of said cities the passage of such ordinances as said board may deem necessary for the welfare of the indigent of said cities. The board shall have the power to employ and discharge all persons or officers in their judgment necessary to carry on the work over which said board is given jurisdiction or control. Said board shall further have power to enter into cooperative arrangement with state or county agencies, or with charitable and philanthropic associations in order better to promote the objects of its work. Said board may act as agent for the county superintendent of public welfare within the limits of the city, under such arrangements as may be made jointly by them.