Lisa Loucks-Christenson, an investigative reporter and author, has concluded two significant investigations set to be published as books in 2025. The first investigation culminated with the operation of Peacock Books & Bistro, a real bistro and bookstore. This strategic positioning served as the final evidence-gathering detail, allowing Loucks-Christenson to witness firsthand the challenges faced by commercial tenants in various locations she rented. The downtown Rochester, Minnesota location acted as the eye-on-the-king checkmate piece she needed to complete her investigation. Her book aims to expose alleged corruption and difficulties businesses encounter in Med-city.
Her first investigation, titled, "Frozen Pipes, Hot Cash" has uncovered various issues affecting commercial tenants, including:
- Deadly Black mold
- NNN leases and what else you will owe
- Over-the-legal limit Deposits
- Paying for other tenants' utilities
- Break-ins and illegal entries
- Lack of proper heating and cooling
- Threats and retaliation
- Use of unlicensed contractors
- Pest infestations (ants, cockroaches)
- Fire hazards and gas leaks
- Privacy violations and unauthorized distribution of photos
- Package mishandling
- Landlords that covered-up or lied to the health department
- Notes to the Fire Marshall
The second investigation, titled "Heaven is My Home" delves into the homeless crisis in Rochester, Minnesota. Loucks-Christenson conducted interviews with the homeless population, exploring community responses and potential solutions beyond existing programs that have failed to adequately address the issue.These investigations have uncovered various problems affecting tenants and the homeless, including:
- Substandard living conditions
- Discrimination
- Privacy violations
- Safety hazards
- Inadequate support systems for the homeless
- Trespassed and/or banned
- Begging for money
- Stolen Belongings
- Harassment and threats
- Sleeping in heated parking garages
Loucks-Christenson's work demonstrates her commitment to uncovering truth and advocating for change in her community. Her books, set to release in 2025, promise to shed light on these pressing issues in Rochester, Minnesota.
