The Elmore County Commission shall provide compensation for deputies, clerks, assistants, and secretaries for the offices of the judge of probate, tax assessor, tax collector, and sheriff in such number as may be necessary for the efficient conduct of such offices. Each officer shall appoint his or her own deputy, clerk, secretary, and assistant and shall fix their compensation, subject to the approval of the county commission as to number and rate of pay.
Ala. Code § 45-26-120.01 (1975)