SIOUX CITY, Iowa (AP) – A pledge by local businesses to hire military veterans has Sioux City set to become the state’s second city to qualify as a Home Base Iowa Community. The Sioux City Journal reports that Gov. Terry Branstad will bestow the honor during a news conference Wednesday.

Sioux City reached the program’s goal to have at least 10 percent of local employers pledge to hire at least one veteran before Dec. 31, 2018. Communities also were required to put together incentive packages for veterans and their families. The program seeks to make the state a top destination for job-seeking veterans.

Marion in eastern Iowa was the first Home Base Iowa city. Thirteen counties have been designated.