The county commission shall have the authority to develop, implement, and administer a countywide personnel system that is consistent with this article. All rules, policies, and procedures necessary to implement this article shall be approved by the county commission. The commission may establish a personnel department. This department shall carry out those activities assigned to it by the county commission in order to administer the county personnel system. The county commission shall adopt all rules, policies, and procedures necessary for creation and operation of the department and adequately fund the personnel department and the personnel board so that they may effectively carry out their duties and responsibilities. The commission also has the authority to grant special awards and incentives to employees in accordance with pre-established guidelines.