§ 10-303

(a) If a county executive is authorized, the county may set the qualifications, term of office, and compensation for the county executive.

(b) A county may provide for the appointment and removal of all county officers except those whose appointment or election is provided for by the Maryland Constitution or public general law.

(c) A county legislative body may enact local laws to:

(1) prevent conflicts between the private interests and public duties of county officers and members of the county legislative body;

(2) govern the conduct and actions of all county officers and members of the county legislative body in the performance of their public duties; and

(3) provide for penalties, including removal from office, for a violation of the local laws or any regulations adopted under the local laws.

(d) A county may provide for a merit system governing the appointment of county officials and employees not elected or appointed under the Maryland Constitution or public general law.