So I have a complex situation that I would really appreciate advice on.
I run a business that used to belong to my family. I sub-rent the space outduring non-peak hours. One 750 sq. ft space is rented out full time to a 3rd party (let's call her Tina) for $1260, which my mom helped me negotiate (she works for me doing administrative tasks). I asked for roughly $1000; she negotiated up to $1200 ($60 for utilities).
Twice a week, the multi-level marketing company (MLM) uses Tina's space for their "meetings." My mom asked Tina for a personal favor, so Tina does not charge the MLM any rent. Furthermore, MLM is using an additional space for free because my mom asked me a favor. At the time, I was just starting up, insanely busy, and the business really didn't need that much space, so I agreed.
Now fast forward one year, the business is growing, I have 6 full-time employees, and I'm fed up with MLM. I hate everything about their slimy business practice, but my mom is 100% entrenched with no hope of getting her to quit. I'm starting to lock all doors except Tina's space because I notice them occasionally using rooms without my permission. Today, my mom confronts me, because they store a couple of items elsewhere in my business, plus they need chairs, tables, etc. She's really pissed at me because she thinks me locking the rooms is a sign I don't trust them and she thinks it's petty (arguably true). She tells me that the extra $200 she helped me negotiate was to cover the MLM's usage of my space. According to her, they do pay, but she's keeping that check, since Tina doesn't know they're paying.
Their MLM members walk into my business at least once a day to make payments, talk, etc with my mom. My business relates to children.
Obvious solution? Throw them out and be done with it.
My caveats:
- My mom works for me, and needs that money to live. Some of what she does is not immediately replaceable.
- Before she fell into this cult, we were really close. This is the first issue that's strained the relationship. I otherwise still enjoy time with her. I'm young, and don't think I'll be close to home forever, so I moved home in part to develop a good relationship with my mom.
- I live with her. I do pay her rent, do chores, etc. I lived independently for awhile but moved home because my mom was so involved with the cult, she wasn't taking care of the dog (which I bought for her, but is now essentially mine). I can afford to move out, but I do save money living at home.
- Throwing down a hard ultimatum would seriously damage the relationship I have with my mom. She's not leaving this cult. We've had every type of conversation under the sun about this.
What should I do?