The sheriff shall select and employ the necessary deputies, chief clerks and other personnel. The sheriff shall fix the compensation they shall receive in accordance with the generally accepted county salary ranges and within the confines of the sheriff's budget allocation set by the governing body. The annual compensation of the undersheriff shall not exceed 90% of the annual compensation of the sheriff. The compensation of the personnel in the office of sheriff shall be paid at the same time and in the same manner as the county officers and employees are paid. The limitations of the salaries set herein shall not be construed to restrict any of said employees from participating in or benefiting from any cost of living bonus or longevity program provided for or established in the county.
N.J.S. § 40A:9-117