Citation for tree obscuring street sign

[olszowka.livejournal.com]

Today I received a citation because a tree in my yard is partially obscuring a street name sign. I've lived in Somerville for 25 years and never heard this was the responsibility of the home owner or heard of anyone receiving such a citation. I think the city is reaching into the depths of ordinances to find ways to raise money. If it's so important, why didn't any of the gazillions of emails I receive from the city mention it like they mention snow shoveling?

I've heard of other places which enforce such ordinances as a way to achieve public good--not to raise money. In such places, it is official policy that if you correct the problem and bring evidence to the hearing officer, the fine will be suspended.