Is East Lake Street safe? Owner of famed Minneapolis record shop cites crime for closure.

Adam Taylor, owner of Hymie’s Records, closed his Minneapolis store due to persistent crime issues, including theft and personal attacks. He reported being held at knifepoint and experiencing vandalism, which, combined with a $4,000 monthly rent, created untenable financial conditions. Community responses varied; while some supported Taylor's concerns, others like Milkweed café owner Brenda Ingersoll emphasized their own positive experiences and criticized Taylor's comments as damaging to local businesses. Taylor purchased the store in 2019, just before the pandemic, compounding his challenges. Despite a slight uptick in property crimes in the area, Cooper neighborhood has a low overall crime rate.

Local nonprofit Lake Street Council, led by executive director Allison Sharkey, is actively working on public safety initiatives. Ingersoll noted her café has had to call mental health crisis services more often than police, suggesting a focus on community needs. The debate over safety on East Lake Street continues as local businesses navigate the post-pandemic landscape.