If a county executive is authorized, the county may set the qualifications, term of office, and compensation for the county executive. 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. A county legislative body may enact local laws to: prevent conflicts between the private interests and public duties of county officers and members of the county legislative body; govern the conduct and actions of all county officers and members of the county legislative body in the performance of their public duties; and provide for penalties, including removal from office, for a violation of the local laws or any regulations adopted under the local laws. 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.