You guys are right, taking it is wrong but it seems like there should be a way to contact the owner and find out what the situation is.

I will change my response, leave a note in a plastic bag and see if you get a response. Leave your phone # folded inside. If a city employee sees it they might call you, or maybe the owner. It cant hurt to try?

I actually own two cars ( I know I know) One is my regular car and the other is a classic car that is a family heirloom. Both are parked at my apartment. Neither have been driven much lately but if somebody left a note on the classic concerned with its possible abandonment or whatever I would contact them. i also wash it monthly and move it around.