Jamal Tashtoush, owner of A & J Fish and Chicken in Minneapolis, is having a tough time because of a homeless encampment that recently sprung up behind his restaurant. He believes that crime has increased, and sales have therefore decreased. Tashtoush has seen a significant drop in sales, estimating a 25% drop in just two weeks. To combat this, he invests in extra security measures and makes extra efforts to clean up his business to ensure the safety and health of his family and customers.
Duke's Cars and Towing, another business in the area, is also facing challenges as a result of the encampment. Yasmin manager Vanessa Cano noted a drop in business due to security concerns and attempted break-ins by individuals from the camp. This made her feel insecure and worried about the future of her business. Residents in the neighborhood, like the Romero family, also feel uneasy and have adjusted their daily routines to prioritize safety in light of recent incidents in the area.
Minneapolis police responded to reports of crimes in the area, including a shooting that occurred Saturday morning and the fatal shooting of a 24-year-old man on Monday. As the situation escalates, community members and business owners like Tashtoush are calling on city officials to address the root causes of the problem. Despite the challenges he faces, Tashtoush remains hopeful for the future and looks forward to a return to normality in his neighborhood where he will be able to interact with his regular customers and feel safe in his work.