The exercise of the powers granted to the board by this article will be in all respects for the benefit of the students and the faculty and other employees at Marshall University and the other people of the state, for the improvement of their safety, convenience and welfare, and is a public purpose. As the operation and maintenance of the football stadium or other athletic facilities at Marshall University constitute the performance of essential governmental functions, the board shall not be required to pay any taxes or assessments upon any property acquired or used by the board or upon the income therefrom. All bonds and notes of the state issued by the board, and all interest and income thereon, shall be exempt from all taxation by the state and any county, municipality, political subdivision or agency thereof, except inheritance taxes.