A. The words, terms and phrases used in this ordinance shall have the meaning assigned to them in this chapter, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning.
B. The following rules shall apply for construing or interpreting the terms and provisions of this ordinance:
1. Meanings and Intent. All provisions, terms, phrases and expressions contained in this ordinance shall be construed according to the purpose statements set forth throughout this ordinance. When a specific section of this ordinance gives a different meaning than the general definition provided in this chapter, the specific section's meaning and application of the term shall control.
2. Headings, Illustrations and Text. In the event of a conflict or inconsistency between the text of this ordinance and any heading, caption, figure, illustration, table or map, the text shall control.
3. Lists and Examples. Unless otherwise specifically indicated, lists of items or examples that use terms such as "for example," "including," and "such as," or similar language are intended to provide examples and are not exhaustive lists of all possibilities.
4. Computation of Time. The time in which an act is to be done shall be computed by excluding the first day and including the last day. If a deadline or required date of action falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or holiday observed by the City, the deadline or required date of action shall be the next day that is not a Saturday, Sunday, or holiday observed by the City. References to days are calendar days unless otherwise stated.
5. References to Other Regulations/Publications. Whenever reference is made to a resolution, ordinance, statute, regulation or document, it shall be construed as a reference to the most recent edition of such regulation, resolution, ordinance, statute, regulation or document, unless otherwise specifically stated.
6. Delegation of Authority. Any act authorized by this ordinance to be carried out by the Planning and Development Director may be carried out by a designee of the Planning and Development Director.
7. Technical and Non-Technical Terms. Words and phrases shall be construed according to the common and approved usage of the language, but technical words and phrases that may have acquired a peculiar and appropriate meaning in law shall be construed and understood according to such meaning.
8. Public Officials and Agencies. All public officials, bodies and agencies to which references are made are those of the City of North Olmsted, unless otherwise indicated.
9. Mandatory and Discretionary Terms. The words "shall," "must," and "will" are mandatory in nature, establishing an obligation or duty to comply with the particular provision. The words "may" and "should" are permissive in nature.
10. Conjunctions. Unless the context clearly suggests the contrary, conjunctions shall be interpreted as follows:
a. "And" indicates that all connected items, conditions, provisions or events apply; and
b. "Or" indicates that one (1) or more of the connected items, conditions, provisions or events apply.
11. Tenses, Plurals and Gender. Words used in the present tense include the future tense. Words used in the singular number include the plural number and the plural number includes the singular number, unless the context of the particular usage clearly indicates otherwise. Words used in the masculine gender include the feminine gender, and vice versa.
(Ord. 2020-78. Passed 11-17-20.)