A. Whenever any word in any section of this city 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 city code by words importing the singular number only, or a particular gender, several matters, parties or persons and the opposite gender and bodies corporate shall be deemed to be included; provided, that these rules of construction shall not be applied to any section of this city code which contains any express provision excluding such construction or where the subject matter or context may be repugnant thereto. The use of any verb in the present tense shall include the future and past tense when applicable.

B. All words and phrases shall be constructed and understood according to the common use and understanding of the language; the technical words and phrases and such other words and phrases as may have acquired a particular meaning in law shall be construed and understood according to such particular meaning.

C. The word “ordinance” contained in the ordinances of the city has been changed in the content of this city code to “title,” “chapter,” “section” and/or “subsection,” or words of like import for organizational and clarification purposes only. Such change to the city’s ordinances is not meant to amend passage and effective dates of such original ordinances. (1962 Code § 1-1-4; amd. 2003 Code)