(a) Meaning and Intent. All provisions, terms, phrases, and expressions contained in this Land Development Code shall be construed according to this Code's stated purpose and intent.
(b) Text. In case of any difference of meaning or implication between the text of this Code and any heading, drawing, table, or figure, the text shall control.
(c) Computation of Time. Periods of time defined by a number of days shall mean a number of consecutive calendar days, including all weekend days, holidays, and other non-business days; however, if the last day is a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, that day shall be excluded.
(d) Delegation of Authority. Whenever a provision appears requiring the head of a department or another officer or employee of the City to perform an act or duty, that provision shall be construed as authorizing the department head or officer to delegate the responsibility to subordinates, unless the terms of the provision specify otherwise.
(e) Technical and Non-Technical Words. Words and phrases not otherwise defined in this Code shall be construed according to the common and approved usage of the language, but technical words and phrases not otherwise defined in this Code that may have acquired a peculiar and appropriate meaning in law shall be construed and understood according to such meaning.
(f) Mandatory and Discretionary Terms. The word "shall" is always mandatory, and the words "may" or "should" are always permissive.
(g) Conjunctions. Unless the context clearly suggests the contrary, conjunctions shall be interpreted as follows:
(1) "And" indicates that all connected items, conditions, provisions, or events shall apply; and
(2) "Or" indicates that one or more of the connected items, conditions, provisions, or events shall apply.
(h) Tense and Usage. Words used in one tense (past, present, or future) include all other tenses, unless the context clearly indicates the contrary. The singular shall include the plural, and the plural shall include the singular.
(i) Gender. The masculine shall include the feminine.
(j) Interpretation of Zone District Boundaries. Where uncertainty exists as to the boundaries of zone districts as shown on the Official Zoning Map, the following rules shall apply:
(1) Boundaries indicated as appearing to follow the center lines of streets or highways shall be construed as following such center lines;
(2) Boundaries indicated as appearing to follow platted lot lines shall be construed as following such platted lot lines;
(3) Boundaries indicated as appearing to follow City limits shall be construed as following City limits;
(4) Boundaries indicated as following railroad lines shall be construed as midway between the main tracks;
(5) Boundaries indicated as approximately following the center lines of streams or other bodies of water shall be construed as moving with the actual body of water and following the centerline; and
(6) When there is disagreement over the location of zone district boundaries, a decision on the correct location shall be rendered by the City Manager with an appeal from this decision made to the Board of Zoning and Building Appeals. In making his decision, the City Manager shall consider the rules set forth in this division, the Comprehensive Plan policies and map of the area in dispute, adjacent and surrounding land uses, and if deemed necessary, an inspection of the area in dispute.
(Ord. 18-93. Passed 10-15-19.)