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Town council approves 28 Grove Street parking lease 10–2 despite objections about length and RFP timing
Summary
The council approved a 10-year parking-area lease for town-owned land at 28 Grove Street by a 10–2 vote; two council members opposed the term length and raised concerns about the short RFP period and alternative uses.
The New Canaan Town Council approved a parking-area lease agreement for a portion of town-owned property at 28 Grove Street on Feb. 9, 2026, with a recorded vote of 10 in favor and 2 opposed.
Council members raised concerns during discussion about the proposed 10-year lease term. Maria Naughton said she supported the idea of generating revenue from the lot but would vote no because she believed a 10-year lease "is too long" and a shorter term would allow more business owners access to the spaces. Another council member, identified in the transcript as Kim Norton, also said she would vote no, noting the RFP was out for only a week and suggesting other community uses—such as a pop-up park—might better align with the town’s plan of conservation and development (POCD).
The clerk conducted a roll-call-style vote. The transcript records the following responses (as read): Janet (yes); Lena Lee (not stated verbally in transcript excerpt); Mike Morrow (yes); Maria Naughton (no); Kim Norton (no); Gloria Armand (yes); Mike Rogers (yes); Christina Ross (yes); Heather Russell (yes); Eric Toonam (yes); Penny Young (yes); Jennifer Zonis (yes). The presiding member announced the motion passed with 10 yeses and 2 nos.
The record does not include the identity of the successful bidder for the parking lease, the rent amount, or the lease's effective date. The transcript shows council members debated term length and outreach (RFP duration) but ultimately approved the 10-year agreement. The council concluded the meeting by reminding members to prepare for the upcoming budget process and adjourning.
