RANCHO CUCAMONGA, CA – When residents hear that “the City Council approved” a major project, many picture a government body acting as a single unit. According to Rancho Cucamonga City Council District 2 candidate David VanGorden, it is important to remember that every major decision is ultimately made by individual elected officials casting individual votes.
“Government becomes more accountable when residents understand who is making decisions and how those decisions shape the future of our city,” said VanGorden.
One of the most discussed projects in Rancho Cucamonga history is the Etiwanda Heights development, a project that continues to generate debate regarding wildfire safety, evacuation concerns, traffic impacts, infrastructure demands, and long-term growth planning.
VanGorden notes that while some elected officials have come and gone over the years, many familiar names remain associated with the direction the city has taken.
The council members who guided Rancho Cucamonga through many of its major growth decisions included former Mayor Sam Spagnolo, who has since passed away, along with current officials Ryan Hutchison, Kristine Scott, Mayor Pro Tem Lynne Kennedy, and Mayor Dennis Michael. More recently, Ashley Sticker joined the council and became part of a governing body that was already charting the city’s course.
“This is not about any one person,” VanGorden said. “It is about understanding how decisions are made over time and recognizing that policies are often the result of years of voting by many of the same elected officials.”
According to VanGorden, residents should ask whether the city’s current challenges are isolated events or the predictable outcome of decisions made over many years.
Among the questions he believes residents should consider:
• How have past City Council votes shaped Rancho Cucamonga today?
• Are residents satisfied with the pace and direction of development?
• Do current policies reflect the priorities of today’s residents?
• Should new voices be part of future decision-making?
• What lessons can be learned from previous approvals and growth decisions?
“These are not questions that belong to politicians,” said VanGorden. “They belong to the residents who live with the consequences of those decisions every day.”
VanGorden says his campaign is focused on listening to residents, increasing transparency, and encouraging greater public participation in local government.
“The future of Rancho Cucamonga should not be decided behind closed doors or accepted without discussion,” he said. “Residents deserve clear information, open dialogue, and a meaningful voice in the decisions that affect their families and neighborhoods.”
About David VanGorden
David VanGorden is running for Rancho Cucamonga City Council District 2 against the incumbent Kristine Scott and candidate DeJonae Shaw. A retired law enforcement professional with more than 30 years of public service experience, he is focused on public safety, responsible growth, transparency in government, and protecting the quality of life that has made Rancho Cucamonga one of Southern California’s most desirable communities.
For more information please visit: David VanGorden for Rancho Cucamonga City Council | District 2 | 2026 Election
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