Reclamation and levees districts are a type of special district, a "public" entity that "exercises certain governmental functions" within its boundaries. The governmental functions of such districts are generally to acquire, build, and operate reclamation works, though they are also authorized to hire employees, incur debt, conduct elections, assess lands, execute contracts, sue or be sued, and acquire property. They are subject to all laws generally applicable to local districts, including the Brown Act (open public meetings), the Public Records Act, the Political Reform Act, the conflict of interest laws, and public bidding. As public entities, reclamation districts are also authorized to join with other entities that wish to share their "common powers" for a common purpose. Joint powers are typically exercised through a joint power agency, which is formed by an agreement of the members.