B.
In the construction of this Code of Ordinances and of all other ordinances, the following rules of construction shall be observed, unless such construction would be inconsistent with the manifest intent of the City Council or the context of the Code or ordinance:
(1)
Computation of time. The time in which an act is to be done shall be computed by excluding the first and including the last day, and if the last day be Sunday or a legal holiday, that shall be excluded. Otherwise Sunday shall be included.
(2)
Gender. A word importing the masculine gender only shall extend and be applied to females and to firms, partnerships and corporations as well as to males.
(3)
Licensing power. When in a provision anything is prohibited from being done without the license or permission of a certain officer, officers or board, such officer, officers or board shall have the power to license or permit such things to be done.
(4)
Number. A word importing the singular number only may extend and be applied to several persons and things as well as to one person and thing.
(5)
Officers, boards, departments, etc. Whenever any officer, board, department or other agency is referred to by title, such reference shall be construed as if followed by the words "of the City of Northampton, Massachusetts," unless indicated to the contrary.
(6)
Preceding; following. The words "preceding" and "following" mean next before and next after, respectively.
(7)
Signature. If the written signature of a person is required, it shall always be his own handwriting or, if he is unable to write, his mark.
(8)
Statute references. Whenever reference is made to MGL c. ______, § _____, this shall mean Massachusetts General Laws.
[Amended 2-1-2007]
(9)