Varner, J. v. Swatara Township, Aplt.

SAYLOR, C.J., BAER, TODD, DONOHUE, DOUGHERTY, WECHT, MUNDY, JJ.

OPINION

JUSTICE DOUGHERTY

We granted discretionary review to determine whether appellant, Swatara Township Board of Commissioners, was required to seek and obtain judicial approval before changing from an at-large to a by-ward system of governance. We hold judicial approval was required pursuant to Section 401 of the First Class Township Code, 53 P.S. § 55401, and thus affirm the decision of the Commonwealth Court.

Swatara Township (the Township) is a First Class Township located in Dauphin County. Prior to 2015, the Township was…