During a recent government meeting in Lapeer, community members voiced strong opposition to a proposal by the Adam and Eve adult store to extend its hours of operation. Concerns centered around the potential implications for community safety, particularly in relation to human trafficking.
One resident highlighted that Lapeer County had experienced a significant sex trafficking bust two and a half years ago, emphasizing the area's vulnerability due to its proximity to major transportation routes and its ranking among the top states for human trafficking. The speaker raised alarms about the possibility of attracting a clientele that may not align with community values, suggesting that extended hours could facilitate the activities of traffickers.
Another resident echoed these sentiments, urging the city to investigate a second business operating from the rear of the Adam and Eve store, which they claimed could violate city ordinances. This raised further questions about the legitimacy of operations at the location.
Community members also expressed concerns about the store's ability to draw customers from outside the area, which some argued could introduce individuals with differing lifestyles and standards into the community. One speaker suggested that keeping the store closed on Sundays would be a reasonable compromise, reflecting the community's values regarding family time and sacred observance.
The meeting underscored a broader apprehension about the potential consequences of extending operating hours for adult businesses, with residents calling for careful consideration of the implications for local safety and community integrity.