(1) The structural form of county government known as the "general county (modified)" form retains, without change or modification, except to the extent that changes or modifications may be effectuated under other proceedings authorized by law, all existing incorporated cities and towns, special taxing districts, public authorities, county service areas, and other local public entities functioning within the boundaries of the county. Under this form of government, the county remains vested with all powers and duties vested in counties by general law, but the county legislative body, together with such other officers as may be specified in the optional plan, shall be elected or appointed in the manner authorized by this act and as provided in the optional plan.

(2) An optional plan for this form of county government shall provide for the election of a county council, composed of not less than three members, which shall be the county legislative body and shall exercise all legislative powers authorized by law. The plan shall specify: (a) whether the members of the council are to be elected from districts, at large, or by a combination of district and at-large constituencies; (b) their qualifications and terms of office, and whether such terms are concurrent or overlapping; (c) grounds for and methods of removal of council members from office; (d) procedures for filling vacancies on the council, provided that the procedures shall conform with Section 20A-1-508; and (e) the compensation, if any, of council members together with procedures for prescribing and changing such compensation from time to time.

(a) whether the members of the council are to be elected from districts, at large, or by a combination of district and at-large constituencies;

(b) their qualifications and terms of office, and whether such terms are concurrent or overlapping;

(c) grounds for and methods of removal of council members from office;

(d) procedures for filling vacancies on the council, provided that the procedures shall conform with Section 20A-1-508; and

(e) the compensation, if any, of council members together with procedures for prescribing and changing such compensation from time to time.