(A) 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.
(B) 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, provided that these rules of construction shall not be applied to any section of this code which contains any express provision excluding such construction, or where the subject matter or content may be repugnant thereto. The word “shall” is mandatory and not discretionary; the word “may” is permissive.
(1993 Code, § 1-1-14)