(a) Except as provided in subsection (b), a shade tree commission shall be composed of three members who shall be residents of the township.

(b) The board of supervisors may, by ordinance, provide that the commission be composed of five members who shall be residents of the township.

(c) Whenever a shade tree commission of three members is established by any township, the initial terms of members shall be for periods of three years, four years and five years respectively. On the expiration of the term of any shade tree commissioner, a successor shall be appointed by the board to serve for a term of five years.

(d) Whenever a shade tree commission of five members is established by any township, the board of supervisors shall appoint members to staggered terms so that one term expires every year. On the expiration of the term of any shade tree commissioner, a successor shall be appointed by the board to serve for a term of five years.

(e) Members of the commission shall serve without compensation but shall be reimbursed for actual and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties.

(f) Vacancies in the office of shade tree commissioner shall be filled by the board of supervisors for the unexpired term.