For the purposes of interpreting the general language and sentence construction of this chapter, the following rules of construction apply unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.
(A) Meaning of words. Words listed in this chapter have the specific meaning assigned, unless the context expressly indicates another meaning. Words that are not defined are given their ordinary and common meaning.
(B) Tenses and usage.
(1) Words used in the singular include the plural. The reverse is also true.
(2) Words used in the present tense include the future tense. The reverse is also true.
(3) The terms “must”, “will,” “shall” and “may not” are mandatory.
(4) The word “may” is permissive, and “should” is advisory, not mandatory or required.
(5) When used with numbers, “up to x,” “not more than x” and “a maximum of x” all include “x”.
(C) Computation of time.
(1) References to “days” are to calendar days unless otherwise expressly stated. Reference to “business days” are references to regular working days of the town, excluding Saturdays, Sundays and town-observed holidays.
(2) The time in which an act is to be completed is computed by excluding the first day and including the last day. If the last day is a Saturday, Sunday or holiday observed by the town, that day is excluded.
(3) A day concludes at the close of business (5:00 p.m.), and any materials received after that time will be considered to be have been received the following day.
(D) References. Any reference to an subchapter, section or division means an subchapter, section or division of this chapter, unless otherwise expressly stated.
(E) Provisions included in “this ordinance” or “this chapter”. All references to compliance with “this ordinance” or “this chapter” are inclusive of all provisions in this ordinance and Chapter 154 Subdivision Regulations unless otherwise expressly stated.
(F) Headings and illustrations. Headings and illustrations are provided for convenience and reference only and do not define or limit the scope of any provision of this chapter. In case of any difference of meaning or implication between the text of this chapter and any heading, drawing, table, figure or illustration, the text governs.
(G) Current versions and citations. All references to other town, county, state or federal regulations in this chapter are intended to be references to the most current versions and citations for those regulations, unless otherwise expressly stated. When the referenced regulations have been repealed and not replaced by other regulations, requirements for compliance are no longer in effect.
(H) Lists and examples. Unless otherwise expressly stated, lists of items or examples that use “including”, “such as” or similar terms are intended to provide examples only. They are not to be construed as exhaustive lists of all possibilities.
(I) Delegation of authority. Whenever a provision appears requiring the head of a department or another officer or employee of the town to perform an act or duty, that provision will be construed as authorizing the department head or officer to delegate that responsibility to others over whom he or she has authority. Delegation of authority is not allowed when the provisions of this chapter expressly prohibit such delegation.
(J) Public officials and agencies. All employees, public officials, bodies and agencies to which references are made are those of the Town of Spindale, North Carolina unless otherwise expressly stated.
(K) Calculations and rounding.
(1) General. Unless otherwise expressly stated in this chapter, all calculations that result in a part or fraction of a whole number must be rounded as follows:
(a) Any fractional result of less than one-half must be rounded down to the next (lower) consecutive whole number; and
(b) Any fractional result of one-half or more must be rounded up to the next consecutive (higher) whole number.
(2) Density. In calculating density, all calculations that result in a part or fraction of a whole number must be rounded down to the next lowest whole number.
(Ord. passed - -)