I would have to argue that regardless of where a shareholder is domiciled, a parking spot can add considerable value to a Co-op or Condo unit, so every shareholder must be treated equally as long as they are in good standing (maintenance paid on time and no infractions of the lease or house rules). If the snowbird fulfills these requirements, then she/he is entitled to acquire the spot when their time comes.

This being said, I also feel that if a shareholder does not physically occupy a garage parking spot for a defined period of time without good cause, that the board be given the power to allow the next person on the list to use the spot until the owner either decides to use it for themselves or gives it up. This would be considered a courtesy to the person being allowed to use the spot in the absence of the owner, so no rights are being conferred or revoked. The board would have to work out the details of the arrangement, but it maintains the value of the existing owner while providing a benefit to the person actually making use of the spot.