THE FOLLOWING IS A DANVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT RELEASE
On or around May 17, 2025, City of Danville officials received complaints that there was a large amount of garbage collecting in the area on the northeast side of Ellsworth Park as well as just west of the 200 block of N. Logan Ave. City personnel inspected the area and found that there were multiple tents along the hillside west of Logan as well as another area that was visible from Ellsworth Park. Both locations were on City Property. City Environmental Inspectors along with Danville Police Department assessed the area.
The area within Elsworth Park appeared to be abandoned. There was an odor from rubbish as well as paraphernalia and other material that posed a risk to public health and safety. It was determined that the area must be cleaned up to remove the hazards. Public health and safety must take priority. There are several visitors and members of the community, including children, who have access to this area. It is a very well-used and popular park.
The area to the west of Logan Ave. had people who appeared to have been camping for more than a week. Additional garbage, as well as material that could pose a risk to public health and safety was present. Those in that location were advised that the area must be cleaned up and a reasonable timeline was provided for the owners to do so. We can be compassionate to a groups’ current situation; however, we must also respect the rights of others, their property, health, and safety. We try our best to provide direction, assistance, and options through limited social services, however, we cannot ensure that they will take the additional steps necessary.
Regarding what the City will do with the 2nd site after it is cleaned up, it will be returned to it natural state that supports wildlife, hiking and other recreation as intended with all of our City parks.
