From the article: > The couple was forced to put up their real estate holdings as collateral to ensure that they pay the fine

So there's at least SOME teeth involved.

> The couple was forced to put up their real estate holdings as collateral to ensure that they pay the fine.

That eliminates at least some avenues of avoidance. That's still no guarantee the fine is actually paid, of course, but if they do avoid it, it'll be with the complicity of the city.

They'll probably appeal the decision and get it reduced. The City Attorney is flat out saying that the fine is as high as it is so that it makes the headlines and deters people.

>The serious financial penalty is an important deterrent,' City Attorney Dennis Herrera said in a statement.