Storm Lake Announces Three 2026 Legislative Forums at King’s Pointe

On Jan. 8 the City of Storm Lake announced plans to hold three legislative forums in Storm Lake during the 2026 Iowa Legislative Session. The events will take place at King’s Pointe Resort on Feb. 7 at 10 a.m., Mar. 28 at 11:30 a.m., and Apr. 18 at 10 a.m. Each forum is open to the public and free of charge.

City officials are sponsoring the series to provide structured opportunities for residents to speak directly with state lawmakers about current issues facing the county. The forums have historically attracted Iowa State Rep. Megan Jones and Iowa State Sen. Lynn Evans, and organizers expect both to be in attendance during the 2026 series. Attendance by local legislators gives residents a direct line to discuss policy implications, constituent concerns, and the practical effects of state decisions on Storm Lake and Buena Vista County.

Legislative forums serve several practical functions for local civic life. They create a public setting where lawmakers are accountable to constituents outside the formal legislative chamber, allow local leaders to highlight community priorities during the session, and give voters an early look at how representatives plan to address local needs. For residents who follow budget decisions, education policy, infrastructure projects, and other state-level choices that affect the county, these events offer a chance to provide input before key votes or budget deadlines.

For community organizations, business leaders, and individual voters, the forums also provide a venue to compare positions among elected officials and to track how those positions align with local interests over time. Regular participation by constituents can influence how representatives prioritize issues and can shape engagement and turnout in future elections.

Storm Lake’s sponsorship of the series underscores the city’s role as a convening body for public discussion during the legislative session. By hosting the forums at a central venue and waiving admission, the city is lowering barriers to participation for residents across Buena Vista County.

Residents interested in attending should note the dates and times and plan to arrive early for seating. Bringing specific questions or written materials can help make interactions with lawmakers more productive. As the 2026 legislative session progresses, these forums will be among the most direct opportunities for local voices to be heard by state elected officials.