Boards of supervisors in counties, having a population of less than 75,000 and not having a board of county auditors, may provide by resolution for the appointment of a committee consisting of not less than 3 nor more than 5, who shall be members of said board of supervisors, to be known as the finance committee. Upon the adoption of such resolution by a board of supervisors, and at the first regular meeting in each year thereafter, a finance committee shall be appointed by the chairman of said board of supervisors as herein authorized, and when ratified by a majority vote of all members of said board, shall hold office for the term of 1 year. Should a vacancy in the committee occur from death, resignation or otherwise, of any member thereof, the chairman of the board of supervisors shall forthwith make an appointment to fill such vacancy and such appointment shall be confirmed at the next meeting of said board of supervisors.

     Each member of the finance committee shall receive, as full compensation for the member's services on the committee, a per diem to be fixed by the county board of commissioners, not to exceed the per diem paid members of the county board of commissioners for attendance at sessions of the board, together with mileage not to exceed the mileage paid members of the county board of commissioners for travel necessary to attend sessions of the board, while attending meetings of the committee. The compensation and expenses provided in this section for a member of the finance committee shall be in addition to the other fees received by the member for services as a member of the county board of commissioners. However, members of the finance committee are not entitled to compensation and mileage for attending a meeting of the committee during a regular or special session of the county board of commissioners.

     The finance committee, as herein authorized, shall have power, and it is hereby authorized and directed:

    (a) To audit all claims which are chargeable against the county, and no warrant shall be drawn for such claim, nor shall any such claim be paid until it has been audited by such finance committee, and payment thereof authorized by such finance committee.

    (b) To examine the books and accounts of all county officers and departments unless otherwise provided by statute. In making such examination it may require the accounts and vouchers of such officer or department to be presented for examination and audit by the committee.

    (c) To make a report to the board of supervisors in each year of all accounts audited and allowed by said committee, said report to be made at such time as shall be fixed by the board of supervisors.

    (d) It shall also execute and perform all orders of the board of supervisors in any matter within the scope of this act, and not otherwise contrary to the laws of this state.

     This act shall not be construed as repealing or contravening any of the provisions of Act No. 58 of the Public Acts of 1909, or amendments thereto; but this act shall be construed as authorizing boards of supervisors to appoint a finance committee to audit, adjust, allow and authorize the payment of claims against such county and thereby expedite the duties of boards of supervisors relating to such claims.