Neighbors split over closure of Glenwood–South Barrett pathway amid safety concerns

A heated public‑comment period Feb. 25 brought contrasting testimony over whether the county should close or restrict a pathway connecting Glenwood Drive and South Barrett Road.

Several residents described frequent recreational and practical use of the path by walkers, children and commuters. Michael Stevenson and Shannon said they use the pathway daily and urged the board not to close it, describing it as well‑lit and maintained. Elizabeth Robinson and other earlier speakers had urged county help in the dog‑park lease matter, and multiple speakers expressed personal reliance on the county’s pathways for daily routines.

Other neighbors, including Claudia, Jolene Williams (reading a statement for a neighbor) and Kathy Gohman, said the easement has become a locus of crime and nuisance activity. Claudia said her cul‑de‑sac has experienced burglaries, vandalism, drug paraphernalia, stolen mail and vehicle break‑ins; she said sheriff deputies have advised residents that closing the easement would reduce calls for service. Jolene said adjoining property owners maintain the pathway and that county maintenance visits have been inconsistent in the past.

Staff told the board the department has documented calls for service and had contacted the Sutter County Sheriff’s Office; the board collected email comments and public testimony for the record. No final board action to close or restrict the pathway was recorded during the meeting; supervisors said staff would follow up and that additional outreach could occur.