(a) The board shall establish a human resources department within the board. The board shall adopt all rules, policies, and procedures necessary for creation and operation of the department.
(b) The department shall assist the board in the creation and implementation of a personnel system. The department shall carry out all activities assigned to it by the board. This shall include promulgating all necessary rules, policies, and procedures; overseeing benefits related to employment; assisting department heads; assisting employees; providing clerical and administrative assistance to the personnel appeals board; and any other functions deemed appropriate by the board-all with consideration and approval by the board.