(a) This section shall be known and may be cited as the "Specifications for Materials and Construction of Utilities and Street Improvements."
(b) The purpose of this section, including the specifications herein adopted, is to provide minimum standards to safeguard life, health, property and public welfare by regulating and controlling the construction, quality of materials, use, location and maintenance of utilities and street improvements in the Municipality.
(c) Where, in any specific case, a part of the specifications herein adopted specifies a different material, method of connection or other requirement than another part, the most restrictive part shall govern.
(d) This section is not intended to prevent the use of any material or method of construction not specifically prescribed by the specifications herein adopted, provided that any alternate material or method has been officially approved by the Manager. The Manager or the Engineer may approve any such alternate material or method, provided that he or she finds that the proposed design is satisfactory and that the material, method or work offered is, for the purpose intended, at least the equivalent of that prescribed in the specifications herein adopted in quality, strength, effectiveness, durability and safety. The Manager may require that sufficient evidence or proof be submitted to substantiate any claim that may be made regarding the use of the material or method of construction.
(e) If any paragraph, diagram or part of this section, including the specifications herein adopted, is declared unconstitutional, it shall not affect the validity of the remaining paragraphs or diagrams of this section or such specifications.
(f) Whenever a question is raised which is not specifically covered by this section or another specification drawn up by the Municipality, the prevailing industry practice, as determined by the Engineer, shall prevail.
(g) Whenever a question of interpretation is raised regarding this section or other specifications regarding the materials and construction of utilities and street improvements, the question shall be submitted to the Manager for clarification in writing. Where such questions are not submitted in writing, the Municipality shall have the right to exercise its judgment in all matters.
(h) The standard drawings of the Southwest Ohio Engineering Association, as modified by the Municipality and approved by the Engineer, on September 20, 1980, are hereby adopted by the Municipality and made a part of this section as if fully rewritten herein. A copy of such standards is on file with the Clerk of Council. (Ord. 914. Passed 12-4-80.)