Yesterday, I attended the community safety meeting at the RONDO Saint Paul Public Library, organized by Rena Moran
The room was packed with community members, many of whom I recognized as neighbors and longtime residents of Rondo. The diversity in age and background was striking, and it was clear that people truly care about our community—they showed up‼️ During the meeting, people shared personal stories and voiced serious concerns. It’s evident that we are facing a crisis, with a troubling lack of accountability. As our taxes continue to rise, we have every right to demand transparency on where our money is going.
I raised the issue of gentrification, specifically noting that areas like Dale/University, Hamline/Midway, and Rice/University are undergoing rapid changes with remodels and new investments. It seems that the City of Saint Paul might be allowing these areas to be overrun with drug activity to pressure residents into selling their homes, ultimately devaluing the neighborhood so properties can be bought at a lower cost. It’s alarming that while our property taxes are increasing by over $1,000 each year, our community continues to deteriorate. We, as residents, witness drug dealers operating openly, parking outside our homes, and yet the city seems to turn a blind eye to it.
But we are RONDO—a community with a unique spirit and a special kind of magic! When we unite, the power of our ancestors will reignite, awakening the enduring spirit that has always defined RONDO. This is a place of opportunity, creativity, and deep-rooted love. It’s time to focus our energy and resources on our youth, because they are the future!
#ChangeIsComing #loveispower #RONDO #gentrification #Community
#MizzMercedez #YoKidzFavoriteTeacher 😊🫶🏽