General rules of construction.
(A) Construction of language, meanings and intent. All provisions, terms, phrases and expressions contained in this chapter shall be construed according to the stated purpose and intent of this chapter. In construing this chapter all defined terms set forth herein shall govern interpretation, whether such terms are capitalized or not capitalized.
(B) Headings, illustrations and text. In case of any difference of meaning or implication between the text and any heading, drawing, table or figure, the text will control.
(C) Computation of time. In computing any period of time prescribed or allowed herein the day of the act, event which the designated period of time begins to run is not to be included. The last day of the period so computed is to be included, unless it is a Saturday, a Sunday or a legal holiday, in which event the period runs until the end of the next day which is not a Saturday, a Sunday or a legal holiday.
(D) References to laws, other regulations, publications and documents. Whenever reference is made to a state or federal law, another regulation, document or publication, it will be construed as a reference to the most recent edition of such law, regulation (as amended), document or publication, unless otherwise specifically stated.
(E) Technical and nontechnical terms. Words and phrases will 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 will be construed and understood according to such meaning.
(F) Mandatory and discretionary terms. The words “shall” or “will” are mandatory requirements, the word “may” is permissive requirement, and the word “should” is a preferred requirement.
(G) Conjunctions. Unless the context clearly suggests the contrary, conjunctions will be interpreted as follows: “and” indicates that all connected items, conditions, provisions or events apply; and “or” indicates that one or more of the connected items, conditions, provisions or events may apply.
(H) Tenses and usage. Words used in one tense (past, present or future) include all other tenses, unless the context clearly indicates the contrary. The singular includes the plural, and the plural includes the singular.
(I) Use of word “person.” The word “person” includes a firm, entity, association, limited liability organization, organization, partnership, trust, company, or corporation as well as individual.
(Ord. 665-98, passed 12-21-1998)