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.

Comments

[bobobb.livejournal.com]

I'm with you, this is completely outrageous, but really not surprising. The city has gotten completely out of control with ticketing. Perhaps one of the many city councilor prospects who have been posting to the livejournal would like to weigh in on this. Certainly anyone willing to push for more moderate-to-reduced ticketing would have my vote.