Since it's a small town, that very well could be a keyed pump. Meaning, you need a key to use it, and the total output is metered and billed (probably) monthly to a single business.That set up, the big protected tank with a boom on top, and a potentially keyed pump are not unusual setups for small towns.
In my opinion, however, it makes zero difference what the objects are. They have zero to do with this case.
Also, he parked in a perfectly acceptable spot. Easy to get in and out and a likely place to park if the lined spaces in front of the store are full. Or, if it's his usual spot and a habit. It's only a few feet from the door, and again... in my opinion it has zero to do with baby Ember missing.