Greenwich officials defend snow‑emergency enforcement as some residents complain about tickets and towing limits

At the Board of Selectmen meeting on Feb. 26, town leaders defended the response to a recent fast‑moving snowstorm after residents in affected neighborhoods criticized ticketing and outreach.

"You can't get tow trucks during a storm like that," the First Selectman said when explaining why tow trucks were not dispatched for routine vehicle removal during the event, and he praised emergency operations director Joe Lella for frequent updates. Deputy Chief Bonnie described targeted outreach in Byron — including reverse‑911 calls, text messages and officers with PA systems driving the neighborhood — and said the town tried various notifications to encourage compliance.

Several residents and association representatives told the board they were frustrated by repeated notices and by being asked to move cars; town staff said municipal parking lots are available during snow emergencies but must be cleared once the storm subsides so crews can plow and remove snow. A senior parking‑services official said that, as the director of parking services, she has "learned that you're never going to make everyone happy," and that enforcement choices balance safety for emergency vehicles with residents' needs.

Why it matters: The exchange clarified an operational limit — tow trucks and other heavy‑equipment responses are reserved for accidents and immediate hazards during a storm — and highlighted a communication challenge: the town said more neighborhood engagement may be needed to reduce complaints and targeted outreach will continue.

Next steps: Officials said they will continue to use reverse‑911, social media and association channels to notify affected residents and will review outreach practices after the winter season.