(a) Two or more municipalities may, by ordinances enacted in each, create a joint zoning hearing board in lieu of a separate board for each municipality. A joint board shall consist of two members appointed from among the residents of each municipality by its governing body.

(b) The term of office of members of joint boards shall be five years, except that of the two members first appointed from each municipality, the term of office of one member shall be three years. When any vacancies occur, the joint board shall promptly notify the governing body which appointed the member whose office has become vacant, and such governing body shall appoint a member for the unexpired portion of the term. Members of the joint board shall hold no other office in the participating municipality.

(c) Where legal counsel is desired, an attorney, other than the solicitors of the participating municipalities, may be appointed to serve as counsel to the joint zoning hearing board.

(d) In all other respects, including the appointment and seating of alternate members, joint zoning hearing boards shall be governed by provisions of this act not inconsistent with the provisions of this section.