The purpose of this part is to promote greater efficiency and economy in the administration of the government of the City of Pelham by accomplishing both of the following: (1) Attract to the service of the City of Pelham qualified individuals of character and ability by providing for their equal treatment and equal opportunity without regard to race, national origin, ancestry, religion, political affiliation, or other non-merit factors. (2) Establish a means to recruit, select, develop, and maintain an effective and responsible workforce based upon merit principles by providing policies and procedures for hiring and advancement, training and career development, job classification, salary administration, fringe benefits, retirement, discipline, and discharge. (Act 2024–259, § 2.)