9.   Any eligible project that conforms to the standards and requirements of this act and the regulations promulgated pursuant thereto is hereby declared to be a public work in furtherance of the housing policy of this State, and any contribution of property, money or services in furtherance of such a program by a unit of local government shall be deemed an expense or cost incurred in furtherance of a public purpose.

   L.1995,c.343,s.9.