The governing body of any city whenever, in its judgment, the public needs require it, may establish and maintain therein a hospital which shall be devoted exclusively to the treatment and relief of the indigent sick and disabled of such city. All property acquired for such purpose shall belong to and be vested in such city. Such municipality, by its corporate name, shall and may sue and be sued in all courts and elsewhere, in all manner of actions, suits, complaints and demands whatsoever growing out of the creation and maintenance of such hospital. The annual tax levy of such city shall include the amount necessary for maintenance of the hospital.
N.J.S. § 30:9-16