The New London City Council on Dec. 2 voted unanimously to send the Ocean Beach Park (Pinnacle Advisory Group) study to the Economic Development Committee for further review and public engagement.

Councilors and residents questioned the timing and procurement of the proposed $30,000 study, arguing that the public and additional stakeholders had not had adequate opportunity to weigh in. Councilor Mueller said the city should keep parallel tracks in mind — short-term operator solutions for September 2026 and a longer-term planning process — and urged public hearings and more transparent outreach.

Councilor Hart opposed the immediate adoption of the study on process grounds, saying, "I'm not in favor of spending $30,000 to find out that we... this company would like us to hire them," and called for a community-driven process. Councilor Farias and others echoed the need to reach residents who have not typically been included in prior conversations.

Councilor Mueller moved to refer the item to the Economic Development Committee; Councilor Farias seconded the motion and the referral carried by voice vote and later by roll call confirmation (7–0). Councilors asked staff and the committee to plan public meetings in multiple languages and to consider inviting related subcommittees such as Public Works to participate.

Director Reyes briefed the council that the RFP committee was also working on near-term operator issues and separate capital improvements; he said the long-term study was a different, larger conversation that needed broad community input.

Council members said they expect the Economic Development Committee to outline a clear agenda and deliverables and to report back to the full council after public meetings and subcommittee work.