(a) Merit Principles. All appointments and promotions of City employees shall be made solely in the basis of merit and fitness demonstrated by a valid and reliable examination or other evidence of competence.

(b) Merit System. Consistent with all applicable Federal and State laws, the Council shall provide by ordinance for the establishment, regulation and maintenance of a merit system. The system shall govern personnel policies necessary for effective performance of the employees of the City’s departments, offices and agencies. It shall include but not be limited to: classification and pay plans, examinations, force reduction, removals, working conditions, provisional and temporary appointments, in-service training, grievances and relationships with employee organizations. All officers of the City shall be exempt from the merit system. (Added at election held Nov. 6, 1990)