Section 22-135. Operation

The board of estimate may direct the commissioner
  to operate or to permit the use of terminal facilities upon  such  terms
  and  subject  to  such  regulations  as such board from time to time may
  establish; and to carry into effect the provisions of  this  subchapter,
  the  commissioner  may  purchase  or  lease or obtain in the best manner
  obtainable for the interests of the city, and according to  law,  power,
  light,  heat  and fixtures for the use thereof and other necessities and
  conveniences for such operation, provided that nothing contained in this
  subchapter shall be deemed to include the right or privilege to grant  a
  franchise   to   carry   on  the  business  of  generating,  selling  or
  distributing electric light, heat or power.