It is the policy of the State to authorize each county and municipality to displace or limit competition in the area of water and sewerage systems to: assure delivery of adequate, economical, and efficient water and sewerage services; avoid duplication of water and sewerage facilities; control disease and provide for the public health and safety; prevent environmental degradation; protect natural resources; use the public right–of–way efficiently; and promote the general welfare by providing adequate water and sewerage systems. Notwithstanding any anticompetitive effect, a county or municipality may: grant one or more franchises or enter into contracts for water or sewerage systems on an exclusive or nonexclusive basis; impose franchise fees; establish charges and rates applicable to the franchise; and adopt rules, regulations, and licensing requirements for the operation of the franchise. If another law grants a county or municipality the authority to operate water and sewerage systems, the county or municipality shall operate the systems without regard to any anticompetitive effect.