Except for those in exempt positions, the Council shall provide by law for a personnel system governing the appointment and removal of employees, and other personnel procedures for employees in the County government. The personnel system shall insure that personnel actions are based upon merit and fitness, and that no employee or applicant for employment shall be discriminated against in any personnel action by reason of race, color, religion, age, disability, creed, sex, marital status, familial status, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or country of national origin.