67 CALLS FOR SERVICE AT GOLDEN OAK PARK RAISE QUESTIONS ABOUT PARK CONDITIONS AND QUALITY OF LIFE

When a District 2 resident contacted Rancho Cucamonga City Council candidate David VanGorden about conditions at Golden Oak Park, he wasn't asking for political talking points. He was asking for someone to listen.

The resident described ongoing problems at the park, including litter, suspicious activity, vandalism, and what he believed was a lack of visible improvement despite repeated complaints. He told VanGorden that he regularly picks up trash himself because he cares about the condition of the park and wants it to remain a safe place for local families.

Instead of simply accepting or dismissing the concerns, VanGorden requested public records from the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department to better understand what was happening at the park.

The records revealed 67 calls for service at Golden Oak Park between January 2025 and June 2026.

The calls included reports involving disturbances, suspicious circumstances, narcotics-related activity, welfare checks, indecent exposure incidents, and other quality-of-life concerns.

The resident also provided photographs documenting overflowing trash containers, litter, graffiti, discarded personal belongings, and a discarded syringe found within the park.

"Residents should not have to wonder whether their concerns are being heard," said VanGorden. "Whether it's a park, a neighborhood street, traffic issue, or public safety concern, people deserve elected officials who are willing to listen and investigate."

VanGorden stressed that the issue extends beyond any single park.

"This is really about responsiveness," he said. "When residents take the time to report problems, they should feel confident that someone is paying attention. Good government starts with listening."

Golden Oak Park serves families, children, and residents throughout the surrounding neighborhood. VanGorden believes maintaining parks and public spaces is an important part of protecting quality of life and preserving the sense of community that has long attracted families to Rancho Cucamonga.

"As a retired law enforcement professional, I understand that public resources are limited and priorities must be balanced," VanGorden said. "At the same time, residents have every right to ask questions when they see recurring issues in places that should be safe and welcoming."

VanGorden says the concerns raised at Golden Oak Park reflect a broader theme he has heard throughout District 2: residents want local government to be visible, responsive, and accountable.

David VanGorden is a retired law enforcement professional with more than 30 years of public safety experience and is a candidate for Rancho Cucamonga City Council District 2. He is running against incumbent Kristine Scott and candidate DeJonae Shaw in the November 2026 election.

For additional information, visit www.vangordenforrancho.com.