(A) Generally. Any reference to the number of any section contained herein shall be understood to refer to the position of the same under its appropriate chapter heading, its subchapter heading, if any, and to the penalty clause relating thereto, as well as to the section itself, when reference is made in this code by title in any legal document or ordinance of the city.
(B) Construing of words. Whenever any word in any section of this code importing the plural number is used, in describing or referring to any matters, parties or persons, any single matter, party or person shall be deemed to be included, although distributive words may not have been used. When any subject matter, party or person is referred to in this code by words importing the singular number only, or the masculine gender, several matters, parties or persons, and females as well as males and bodies corporate shall be deemed to be included. The words “persons, firm or corporation” shall be deemed to include any association or organization of any kind. Words in the present shall include the future. The words, “this code” shall be held and taken to mean the entire code of ordinances, including each and every section thereof. The word “city” whenever used in this code shall be held and taken to mean the City of Plankinton, South Dakota. The word “Mayor” whenever used in this code shall be held to mean the Mayor of the City of Plankinton, South Dakota. The words “written” and “in writing” may include printing; provided, that these rules of construction shall not be applied to any section of this code which contains any express provisions excluding such construction or where the subject matter or content of such section may be repugnant thereto.
(C) Variation in grammatical construction and terminology. No variation in punctuation, either formal or informal, consistent or not, shall affect the validity of this code; nor shall obvious or apparent defects in spelling or typography be construed as to invalidate any portion hereof; so long as the purpose and intent of such section is clear.
(Prior Code, § 17-1-1)