ARTICLE V TOWNSHIP OFFICERS GENERALLY

Section 501. Oath of Office.--Every person elected or appointed to any township office shall before assuming the duties of the office take and subscribe an oath or affirmation before a notary public, district justice or judge to support the Constitutions of the United States and of the Commonwealth and to perform the duties of the office with fidelity. A copy of the oath or affirmation shall be filed with the township secretary before assuming the duties of the office.

Section 502. Bonds.-When any officer or employe of any township is required to give bond for the faithful performance of the duties of the office, the bond shall be with a surety company or other company authorized by law to act as surety, and the township may pay the premium on the bond.

Section 503. Removal for Failure to Perform Duties.-If any township officer fails to perform the duties of the office, the court of common pleas upon complaint in writing by five percent of the electors of the township may issue a rule upon the officer to show cause why the office should not be declared vacant. The officer shall respond to the rule within thirty days from its date of issue. Upon hearing, the court may declare the office vacant and require the vacancy to be filled under section 407.