The members of the city planning commission shall serve without pay. It is the duty of such commission to prepare from time to time plans for the systematic development and betterment of the municipality as a place of residence or for business. It shall have the power and authority to employ engineers, attorneys, clerks and a secretary, or other help deemed necessary, subject to the approval of the mayor. The salary and compensation of such employees shall be fixed by the city and shall be paid out of the city treasury as other officers and employees, and the necessary expenses incurred by the commission shall be paid out of the city treasury as other legal expenses of the city government. (1984 Code)