In the construction of this subchapter, the rules set out in this section shall be observed unless such construction is inconsistent with the manifest intent of the City Council. The rules of construction and definitions set out herein shall not be applied to any section of this subchapter which contains any express provisions excluding such construction or where the subject matter or content of such section would be inconsistent with this section.
(A) Generally. All provisions, terms, phrases, and expressions contained in this subchapter shall be liberally construed in order that the true intent and meaning of the City Council may be fully carried out. Terms used in this subchapter, unless otherwise specifically provided, shall have the meanings prescribed by the Florida Statutes for the same terms.
(B) Text. In case of any difference of meaning or implication between the text of this subchapter and any figure, the text shall control.
(C) Delegation of authority. Where there is a provision requiring the head of a department or some other city officer to do some act or to perform some duty, it is to be construed to authorize that person to delegate professional level subordinates to perform the duty, unless the terms of the provision or section specify otherwise.
(D) Gender. Words of the masculine gender shall be construed to include the feminine and vice versa.
(E) Month. A calendar month.
(F) Nontechnical and technical words. Words and phrases shall be construed according to the common and approved usage of the language, but technical words and phrases and such others as may have acquired a peculiar and appropriate meaning in law shall be construed and understood according to such meaning.
(G) Number. A word of the singular number only, may extend and be applied to several persons and things as well as to one (1) person and thing. The use of the plural number shall be deemed to include any single person or thing.
(H) Shall, may. “Shall” is mandatory; “may” is permissive.
(I) Tense. Words used in the past tense include the future as well as the past or present.
(J) Written or in writing. Any representation of words, letters or figures whether by printing or otherwise.
(K) Year. A calendar year unless a fiscal year is indicated.
('74 Code, § 15-84) (Ord. 91-10, passed 5-16-91)