Building Community, Preserving Legacy: A Conversation with Mikeya Griffin of Rondo Community Land Trust
At Nokomis Legal, meaningful work goes beyond transactions—it’s about supporting communities, preserving history, and helping create pathways for future generations. In this article we highlight a recent conversation with Mikeya Griffin, President of Rondo Community Land Trust, whose leadership continues to shape impactful, community-driven development across the Twin Cities.
What is Rondo Community Land Trust?
Rondo Community Land Trust is a community-led nonprofit dedicated to creating and preserving affordable housing and commercial spaces. For more than three decades, it has worked to expand homeownership opportunities for working families and individuals, while also supporting local entrepreneurs through district-wide, restorative redevelopment that strengthen entire neighborhoods.
As the first community land trust in Minnesota, the organization was founded by residents determined to address displacement and create long-term stability in their neighborhood. Rondo Community Land Trust acquires and holds land in trust for the benefit of the community, ensuring that housing and commercial opportunities remain accessible and affordable.
Over time, the organization has expanded its work across multiple counties, focusing not only on housing, but also on economic development, cultural preservation, and community investment. From supporting small businesses to fostering spaces where people can live, work, and gather, Rondo Community Land Trust continues to play a vital role in strengthening the fabric of the community.
The History and Significance of Rondo
The Rondo neighborhood holds deep cultural and historical significance. Once home to 90% of the Twin Cities’ African American population, it was a thriving hub of families, businesses, and culture.
That legacy was disrupted in the mid-20th century when the construction of Interstate 94 displaced hundreds of families and over 300 businesses. Today, efforts led by Rondo Community Land Trust aim not only to rebuild, but to honor and restore what was lost.
One of the most ambitious projects underway is the redevelopment of the former Sears site near the State Capitol. This vision includes a mixed-use urban village that will bring together housing, retail, green space, and community-centered design. With over 700,000 visitors to the Capitol each year and thousands working nearby, the project represents a unique opportunity to reconnect the neighborhood, bridge past harms, and create a vibrant future rooted in Rondo’s legacy.
Why This Work Matters Today
As Mikeya Griffin shared, the work being done in the Rondo community is about more than development—it’s about equity, access, and repairing historic injustices. It creates opportunities for teachers, healthcare workers, service industry professionals, and families to put down roots and build generational stability.
Equally important is the focus on cultural placemaking—ensuring that the history, identity, and voices of the Rondo community remain central to its future.
Nokomis Legal’s Role in Supporting Rondo Community Land Trust
Nokomis Legal has been a trusted partner to Rondo Community Land Trust, providing legal support across a range of initiatives including real estate transactions, commercial leasing, and community development projects.
The firm has played an instrumental role in advancing projects within the Rondo Cultural District, particularly along Selby Avenue, where small business owners and entrepreneurs are building and growing their ventures. From supporting property acquisitions to advising on development strategies, Nokomis Legal brings both legal expertise and a deep commitment to community impact.
Mikeya noted that John at Nokomis Legal stands out for its thoughtful, creative approach and its ability to build trust quickly—qualities that are especially important when working alongside nonprofit organizations and community stakeholders.
A Highlighted Collaboration: Golden Thyme
One standout collaboration is the redevelopment surrounding Golden Thyme, a beloved local establishment that includes both a restaurant and café. This project serves as an anchor for a broader small business incubator space, fostering entrepreneurship and community connection.
By helping structure and support this initiative, Nokomis Legal has contributed to creating a space where businesses can thrive while staying rooted in the neighborhood.
Reflecting Shared Values
The partnership between Nokomis Legal and Rondo Community Land Trust reflects a shared commitment to equity, community empowerment, and long-term impact. It’s about more than legal work—it’s about being part of something bigger.
Together, they are helping to preserve the legacy of Rondo while building a future where individuals, families, and businesses have the opportunity to succeed and grow within their community.
To learn more about Rondo Community Land Trust, visit https://www.rondoclt.org/.
