By: Kevin Lincoln 

Growing up in Stockton, I have many fond memories of spending my Summers and evenings at Anderson Park. While my mom was away at work, I spent most of my free time at the City of Stockton Parks and Recreation at Seifert Center and Anderson Park, where I learned to play basketball, formed some of my closest, lifelong friendships, and learned critical team-building skills. The fact is this park and these programs brought me joy and a positive outlet as a young man. 

The memories I made at Anderson Park are ones I still cherish to this day. It was a place of laughter, friendship, and community.

However, over the past several years, Anderson Park, like many throughout our city and state, has been overrun by homeless encampments, making it difficult for families and children to enjoy. This situation is personal to me and to the people who live here. Anderson Park is not just a park; it is a vital part of our community’s fabric.

With the recent Supreme Court decision and our City taking the lead, we now have the law on our side to clean up the park and address the issue of homelessness that has affected this beloved space. 

Our goal is not just to remove the homeless but to restore Anderson Park to its former glory, making it a safe, welcoming place for everyone.

In addition to the many Stockton parks we’ve restored over the past four years, we are investing $300,000 to install a brand new playground at Anderson Park. 

This investment is not just about physical improvements; it is about reclaiming a space that belongs to the people and families of Stockton. 

Anderson Park will once again be a place where children can play, families can gather, and memories can be made.

This park belongs to the community, and we must ensure that it returns to its original owners: the people and families of Stockton. Thank you for your support and for helping in this effort to revitalize a place that means so much to us all.

Kevin Lincoln, Mayor of Stockton