A. In construing this code, the following rules shall govern unless their observance would involve a construction inconsistent with the manifest intent of the city council or be repugnant to the context of the relevant provisions of this code:
1. Words and phrases shall be construed according to rules of grammar and according to their common and approved usage, but technical words and phrases and such others as have acquired a special meaning or are defined in this code shall be construed according to their special meaning or definition.
2. The singular includes the plural, and the plural includes the singular.
3. Words used in the past or present tense include the future.
4. General words are restricted in meaning by particular words. (1982 Code § 1.411)
5. As used in this code, "may" is permissive and "shall" is mandatory, except that, unless expressly provided otherwise, "shall" is directory when used with reference to the duties of any officer or employee of the city. (1982 Code § 1.412)
B. The word "ordinance" contained in the ordinances of the city has been changed in the content of this code to "title", "chapter", "section" and/or "subsection" or words of like import for organizational and clarification purposes only. Such change to the city's ordinances is not meant to amend passage and effective dates of such original ordinances. (2005 Code)