§ 10.13 DETERMINATION OF LEGISLATIVE INTENT.

   (A)   In enacting an ordinance, it is presumed that:

      (1)   Compliance with the constitutions of the state and of the United States is intended;

      (2)   The entire ordinance is intended to be effective;

      (3)   A just and reasonable result is intended; and

      (4)   A result feasible of execution is intended.

(ORC § 1.47)

   (B)   An ordinance is presumed to be prospective in its operation unless expressly made retrospective.

(ORC § 1.48)

   (C)   If an ordinance is ambiguous, the court, in determining the intention of the legislative authority, may consider among other matters:

      (1)   The object sought to be attained;

      (2)   The circumstances under which the ordinance was enacted;

      (3)   The legislative history;

      (4)   The common law or former legislative provisions, including laws upon the same or similar subjects;

      (5)   The consequences of a particular construction; or

      (6)   The administrative construction of the ordinance.

(ORC § 1.49) (1980 Code, § 10.13)