Rancho Cordova residents report increased safety perceptions at events and parks

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over Rancho Cordova, city officials gathered for a pivotal meeting that would shed light on community safety and public perception of local services. The discussions, held on September 2, 2025, revealed encouraging trends in how residents feel about their safety and the performance of the Rancho Cordova Police Department.

A recent survey highlighted that 76% of attendees at local events felt somewhat or very safe, a notable increase from previous years. This statistic reflects a growing sense of security among residents, despite the backdrop of national safety concerns that have permeated media narratives. Interestingly, feelings of safety in local parks have also improved, with 2025 figures showing a rise to 76% from just 69% in 2021.

Shopping in Rancho Cordova has become a more secure experience as well, with 81% of respondents reporting they felt safe while out in the community. However, this venue still recorded the highest percentage of individuals feeling somewhat or very unsafe, indicating that while improvements have been made, there is still work to be done.

The meeting also focused on the performance of the Rancho Cordova Police Department, which received high marks from the community. In terms of community involvement, 82% rated the department as very good or good, a significant improvement from 2021. The police were similarly praised for their ability to help citizens and treat individuals fairly, with ratings consistently above 76%. Notably, the department's response time was rated positively by 80% of respondents, a remarkable achievement in emergency services where expectations are often high.

City officials expressed surprise at these ratings, particularly regarding response times, as it is common for emergency services to face criticism. The low percentage of residents rating the police as poor or very poor—only 6%—underscored the department's effectiveness in building trust within the community.

In addition to safety and police performance, the meeting addressed how well the city communicates its programs and services. A solid 75% of residents rated the city’s information dissemination as very good or good, reflecting a significant improvement over the past few years. The primary sources of information for residents were city-produced materials and digital platforms, indicating a shift towards electronic communication methods.

As the meeting concluded, city officials left with a sense of optimism. The data not only highlighted areas of success but also pointed to opportunities for further engagement and improvement. With a community that feels increasingly secure and a police department that is well-regarded, Rancho Cordova is poised to continue fostering a safe and informed environment for its residents.