In signing any documents, a duly authorized and appointed deputy city clerk shall sign the name of the clerk followed with the word "by" and the deputy clerk’ s own name and the words "deputy clerk."

    When duly appointed and authorized as herein provided, the signature affixed by any such deputy clerk in the manner herein prescribed on any city document, including, but not limited to, contracts, bonds or other obligations of the city, such documents shall have the same effect as if the document so executed had been signed by the city clerk in person.

    The signature affixed to any city document by a deputy city clerk heretofore appointed by the city clerk in acting pursuant to written direction of the city clerk or resolution of the corporate authorities of the city determining the city clerk is incapacitated to perform the clerk’ s functions are hereby ratified, affirmed and authorized by the city council and the same shall be valid and shall have the same force and effect as if the document was executed by the city clerk in person. (Amended during 1997 codification: Ord. 948 §§ 3--5, 1991)