Local and state politicians met with Hispanic residents and business owners at Nevins Library on Oct. 22 to listen to their concerns and come up with solutions. 

“One of the reasons that we are gathered here is to create the space where Latinos from across Methuen can come together talk about different issues going on in Methuen and also connect with the leaders of Methuen,” said Sen. Pavel Payano, who organized the Methuen Latino Coalition Community Forum.

Acting Mayor DJ Beauregard, Police Chief Scott McNamara, City Councilor Patricia Valley, state Rep. Estela Reyes and a representative for Rep. Ryan Hamilton attended.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2022 30 percent of Methuen residents were Hispanics.

Concerns brought up at the meeting, attended by 22 people, included community development; housing; having more Hispanic representation on the City Council, school community and in the Police Department; and how to deal with residents who suffer from mental health issues.

“I view this as an opportunity to keep our ears close to the ground relative to the Hispanic community,” Beauregard said of the meeting.

McNamara said the city is making strides to diversify the Police Department. Out of the 102 police officers in Methuen, 19 of them are Hispanics and there are five bilingual civilians who answer 911 calls. 

“There’s still more work that needs to be done,” said McNamara, who also spoke about community policing. 

Also at the meeting was Luis Santiago who was the first Hispanic to be named a department head when he was hired as chief information officer for Methuen in 2022.

Dahiana Fuente, who has lived in Methuen since 2014, was pleased with the meeting. 

“It’s good to brainstorm on how to make the city better,” said Fuente.

This was the second community forum hosted by the Methuen Latino Coalition. Another meeting will be scheduled at a later date to discuss education.