I have been using Greenfield’s beautiful trails and bike path for over 15 years. Never have I seen them in such deplorable conditions as the past year. There are not any trail areas that I bring my child and dog to where I have not recently come across human excrement, vomit, syringes and copious amounts of trash. I get that Greenfield is working on the significant local housing and mental health crisis and I applaud all the efforts the city is doing in regard to these issues. I’ve also noticed efforts such as bocce courts and story walks in our parks, but our trail systems have been grossly neglected. There are many residents that want to enjoy these free, natural spaces in a sanitary manner. I am deeply concerned about our trail systems. This is a health and safety issue for local homeless population, neighborhood residents and those using them for outdoor recreation. Please allocate a portion of our skyrocketing property taxes to clean up these areas for the health, safety and enjoyment of everyone. People should not feel forced to leave town to safely enjoy woods walks, walk their dogs, or hike with children.

Karen Wessinger

Greenfield