Storm Lake High School students got a hands-on lesson in local government yesterday as they held a full mock city council meeting inside the council chambers at Storm Lake City Hall.
The exercise was part of the May‑term class Citizenship in the Community, which focuses on civics, civic engagement, and how local decisions shape daily life.
Mayor Meg McKeon invited the students to City Hall, saying the experience aligns with her goal of helping young people become more informed and involved in their community. Two sessions were held — one in the morning and one in the afternoon — so every student could participate.
The morning group included eight students with eight also participating in the afternoon session. Most students were freshmen and sophomores, with a few juniors mixed in.
Students stepped into official roles for their meeting. Leanah Yun served as mayor in the morning group, with Hector Ponce acting as city manager and Anahi Castillo serving as city clerk.
Teacher Nate Sotebeer says the class was designed to give students a deeper understanding of how local government works — something they don’t always get in traditional government courses.
Students spent the first days of the course preparing for Monday’s meeting — learning about city roles, reading the news and running for their mock positions. They also practiced with a script modeled after an actual council agenda.
When the meeting began, students worked through a full docket: call to order, pledge of allegiance, setting the agenda, hearing the public and reviewing consent items like minutes, bills and special event applications.
From there, they moved into new business — and tackled real world issues Storm Lake is currently facing. Students discussed water service rate increases, voting in favor. They also debated a potential leash law for dogs, and talked through e‑bike and scooter regulations, including how enforcement might work and which city officials would need to provide input.
For many students, the experience was eye‑opening. Several said they were surprised by how formal the process felt once they sat in the actual council seats. Others said they hadn’t realized how much discussion and procedure goes into even routine decisions.
And while none of the students said they’re ready to run for office just yet, Sotebeer hopes the experience helps them see themselves as future leaders.
