on the decline
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9/18/2009
Another contributor's recent comment on the quality of life in Marshalltown was accurate up to a point, in my opinion as a long-time city resident, but did not offer a balanced perspective.
Marshalltown people in general do not necessarily treat all Hispanics badly.
I suspect that what's happening here in terms of many residents' cool reception of new immigrant arrivals is based on experiences many members of the established Hispanic comminity. So many are unwilling or unable to learn English. Criminal activity increases daily in the form of defacement of public and residential buildings and structures through gang-related graffiti. Aggravated assault, alcohol-related disturbances, domestic violence, rape, theft, and gang activity are on the rise, some of which may be attributed to activity within the steadily increasing population of the Hispanic community. Local law enforcement is weak at best in this area, possibly because officials see no way to eliminate disruptive activity. Local media, for the most part do not report incidences and information relies heavily upon anecdotal reports from city residents and the young people living here.
For any community to function peacefully, this requires sincere effort on the part of all residents to respect one another and the community they call home. In Marshalltown, everyone needs to make a better effort to make this happen.
I hope this comment is helpful.
marge | Marshalltown, IA