Rich Vandenberg has launched his campaign for Riverside City Council's Ward 4 seat in the upcoming 2026 election. The announcement came via social media on Tuesday, May 7.
Vandenberg, a Riverside native, businessman, and father, will challenge incumbent Chuck Conder, who has represented Ward 4 since 2017 and is currently serving a term that ends in 2026.
"I'm excited to start this journey to bring fresh leadership and a strong voice to our community," Vandenberg said in his campaign announcement. "I believe leadership is about service, not power."
In his campaign launch, Vandenberg emphasized his deep roots in the community and commitment to transparent governance. He is positioning his candidacy around a platform of "Stronger, Safer, Smarter Growth" for Ward 4, which includes the Alessandro Heights, Mission Grove, Orangecrest, and the Greenbelt.
"I am running for City Council to be a strong, reasoned voice for Ward 4 residents and ensure the people's priorities remain at the forefront of my work in City Hall," Vandenberg states on his campaign website. "My promise to my Ward 4 neighbors is simple: I will always be transparent, I will always put residents first, and I will work tirelessly to make our city stronger, safer, and more prosperous for everyone."
In an interview with The Raincross Gazette, Vandenberg outlined three key initiatives he would champion in his first year if elected: promoting responsible development, improving city responsiveness, and supporting economic development.
"I support responsible growth that balances the interests of current residents with the opportunity to attract business investment that strengthens our local economy and attracts quality jobs to our city," Vandenberg said. "I will work with residents and developers to build our community in ways that respects our community's deep heritage and prioritizes the needs of residents."
Vandenberg, who currently serves as Vice Chair of the Budget Engagement Commission and Chair of the Downtown Area Neighborhood Alliance, emphasized the importance of strengthening neighborhood input in city decisions.
"Ward 4 residents deserve a city government that listens and follows through," he said. "On issues ranging from increasing police presence to enhancing transparency in budget decisions and land use planning, I will prioritize better communication between the city and the residents."
When asked about specific development projects in Ward 4, including the Mission Grove Apartments and March Innovation Hub, Vandenberg expressed a measured approach.
"While I recognize that development is important for the long-term strength of our local economy, I believe we must be thoughtful about the kinds of industries we welcome into Riverside," he said. "Large warehouse projects – such as those included in the March Innovation Hub proposal – often raise concerns about increased traffic, pollution, and low-wage employment."
Regarding housing development, Vandenberg acknowledged the need for more affordable options while emphasizing community fit.
"I acknowledge the pressing need for more affordable and workforce housing in Riverside. At the same time, it's critical that any housing development fits well within the existing community and infrastructure," he said. "I believe strongly in seeking community input early in the planning process to ensure that new developments address concerns such as traffic, public safety, school capacity, and neighborhood character."
Vandenberg's campaign comes as Ward 4 prepares for its first election since Conder secured a five-year term in 2021, when he defeated challenger Monrow Mabon with 56% of the vote.
Follow our coverage for more information about who is running for what.
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