STORM LAKE, Iowa (KTIV) -
The rise of Iowa's Hispanic population has been well documented in recent years.
Three of the state's largest Spanish-speaking populations are in Siouxland, including Buena Vista County and the Town of Storm Lake.
If the packed pews at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Storm Lake, Iowa are any indication, the Spanish-speaking population in this town is large and growing everyday.
"They like it here. They're staying here and it's growing. I think that's why it's important, they're part of the community," said Sara Huddleston, Storm Lake City Council.
Sunday, city leaders held a town hall with the Hispanic community.
Called a "comprehensive plan," the meeting is one of many Storm Lake plans to have as they look to the future.
"What they're trying to do is gather information, points of view, they want their input from the Latino community," said Huddleston.
"I want to give the best for the community too. I like to see growth and get better with our families," said Juan Valadez of Storm Lake, IA.
"All this week there's going to be at the high school, there's going to be one at city hall, with business people, with other professional people," said Huddleston.
Topics ranged from commerce, to housing, and even recreation.
"Putting in more parks, I think that's better for the families," said Norma Rangel of Storm Lake, IA.
"The folks that attended Sunday's meeting say that they're glad Storm Lake included the
"We feel good when we get counted in and give our opinion. I like that," said Valadez.
"The Hispanic community has more participation in here. They very important because a lot of Hispanics live here," said Norma Rangel.
Making members of a community that sometimes feels ignored, active participants.
"That's great. It gives the opportunity to say what they like about the community in the future," said Rangel.
"The American people getting together. We get involved more in their community. And their culture and our culture Hispanics and Americans," said Valadez.
"I would see Storm Lake probably in another 10 years growing more. We start getting ready, prepare, and plan ahead of time," said Huddleston.
The city will have a general community meeting Monday at 6pm at Storm Lake's Sunrise Pointe Golf Course.
Storm Lake Comprehensive Plan
