David VanGorden Outlines Practical, Balanced Approach to Address Homelessness in Rancho Cucamonga
As homelessness becomes an increasingly visible concern states Rancho Cucamonga City Council candidate David VanGorden who is calling for a balanced, practical approach that reflects what residents are experiencing—and what they are asking for.
VanGorden will be running for District 2 seat currently held by incumbent Kristine Scott and candidate DeJonae Shaw.
Over the past several months, VanGorden says he has had numerous conversations with residents at community events, in neighborhoods, and following public meetings, where homelessness in Rancho Cucamonga continues to emerge as a top concern.
At a recent Rancho Cucamonga City Council meeting, one resident spoke publicly about growing concerns, including encampments near shopping centers, trash accumulation, and safety issues. After leaving the chamber, she was joined by approximately 15 other residents who continued the discussion informally in the hallway.
“That moment was important,” said VanGorden. “There were no microphones, no formal structure—just residents speaking honestly about what they’re seeing. It made one thing very clear: people don’t feel heard.”
VanGorden emphasizes that homelessness is not a single-issue problem and should not be treated as one.
“Within the homeless population, there are different situations—mental illness, addiction, financial hardship, and in some cases, individuals choosing to live outside traditional systems,” he said. “A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work, and ignoring the issue doesn’t work either.”
Drawing from strategies used in cities of similar size, VanGorden is advocating for a coordinated approach that balances compassion with accountability.
His proposed framework includes:
Expanding Access to Services Ensuring that individuals who are willing to accept help have clear access to shelter, mental health services, job assistance, and transitional housing.
Addressing Mental Health and Addiction Utilizing existing California laws that allow for structured intervention and treatment for individuals who are unable to care for themselves due to serious mental health conditions or substance abuse.
“Doing nothing in those situations is not compassion,” VanGorden noted.
Establishing Clear Community Standards After offering resources and assistance, enforcing laws related to trespassing, public camping, and sanitation to protect neighborhoods, businesses, and public spaces.
Protecting Public Assistance Programs Supporting oversight and enforcement to ensure programs such as EBT are used as intended, with accountability for both misuse and illegal activity.
Exploring Practical Housing Solutions Evaluating transitional housing options, partnerships with county and regional agencies, and the potential use of underutilized facilities to help move individuals off the streets and into stable environments.
VanGorden stresses that the goal is not to take an extreme position, but to reflect the balanced perspective he consistently hears from residents.
“Most people aren’t looking for extremes,” he said. “They want compassion for those who need help, accountability for behavior that impacts the community, and solutions that actually work.”
As part of his campaign for Rancho Cucamonga City Council District 2, VanGorden says he will continue to engage directly with residents and incorporate their input into policy discussions.
“I’m not interested in making promises that sound good but go nowhere,” he said. “I’m focused on listening, asking the right questions, and putting forward practical solutions that make sense for our city.”
VanGorden encourages residents and business owners to share their experiences and perspectives as the conversation continues.
“Rancho Cucamonga belongs to all of us,” he added. “Every resident deserves to feel safe, heard, and respected.”
David VanGorden welcomes your input. comments or concerns and he can be reached hereL David VanGorden for Rancho Cucamonga City Council District 2.
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