Subject to additional definitions contained in subsequent provisions of this subpart which are applicable to specific provisions of this subpart, the following words and phrases when used in this subpart shall have the meanings given to them in this section unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

"Council." County commissioner, city council, borough council, town council, township commissioner in a township of the first class and supervisor in a township of the second class.

"Election officials." The county boards of elections.

"Electors." The registered voters of any municipality involved in proceedings relating to the adoption and repeal of optional forms of government.

"Governing body." Board of county commissioners, city council, borough or incorporated town council, commissioners of a township of the first class and supervisors of a township of the second class or their successor forms of government.

"Government study commission" or "commission." The body elected under the provisions of Subchapter B (relating to procedure for adoption of home rule charter or optional plan of government).

"Home rule charter." A written document defining the powers, structure, privileges, rights and duties of the municipal government and limitations thereon. The charter shall also provide for the composition and election of the governing body, which in all cases shall be chosen by popular elections.

"Local municipality." Municipal corporation except a city of the first class.

"Nonresident." Any person or entity not a resident within the meaning of this subpart.

"Optional forms." Includes home rule charters and optional plans.

"Optional plans." Optional municipal powers, procedures and administrative structures as provided by this subpart.

"Rate of taxation." The amount of tax levied by a municipality on a permissible subject of taxation.

"Resident." Any person or other entity living in or maintaining a permanent or fixed place of abode in a municipality or conducting or engaging in a business for profit within a municipality.

"Subject of taxation." Any person, business, corporation, partnership, entity, real property, tangible or intangible personal property, property interest, transaction, occurrence, privilege, transfer, occupation or any other levy which is determined to be taxable by the General Assembly. The term shall not be construed to mean the rate of tax which may be imposed on a permissible subject of taxation.