Hispanic businesses thrive in Polk County as population booms [Video]

HAINES CITY, Fla. – Vicente Barajas is the co-owner of La Michoacana, a “paletas” and ice cream shop that features dozens of flavors and original recipes from Mexico. The business started back in 2019 in Haines City and has since expanded to five locations across Central Florida.

“We’ve been growing so much here in Haines City mostly, because there’s so much growth,” said Barajas. “A lot of new houses are being built. A lot of Hispanics, which is the population we focus on, have been here in Haines City.”

Haines City boasts a 58% Hispanic population and now celebrates its first Hispanic mayor of Mexican origin – Omar Arroyo – who hopes his leadership inspires the local Hispanic community to get involved.

READ: Haines City hopes to revive rich history, legacy of Historic Oakland Business District

“This city has given me everything I have, so I have so much love for this city,” said Arroyo. …