Mayor William “Bill” Edwards has been tapped to deliver the opening remarks at the 17th Annual South Metro Development Outlook (SMDO) Conference on February 21 at the Georgia International Convention Center.
SMDO is the south metro region’s largest economic development conference. The event convenes experts and government and business leaders to discuss trends, strengths, challenges and opportunities in the region and to highlight economic development initiatives.
“The south metro area of Atlanta continues to grow and be a great location for economic development,” said Michael Hightower, founder of SMDO and managing partner of The Collaborative Firm. “I am excited to have the SMDO conference highlight many of the key projects and companies that continue to flourish here on the south side.”
At this year’s conference, industry experts and thought leaders will discuss the growth, impact, and positive changing perspectives of Clayton, Coweta, Douglas, Fayette, Henry, and South Fulton counties as well as the City of Atlanta. A number of speakers are scheduled to appear including MARTA CEO Jeff Parker, Atlanta Hawks CEO Steven Koonin, Mayor Jack Longino of College Park and Aerotropolis Atlanta CIDs Executive Director Gerald McDowell.
Topics of note to be discussed include the Gateway Center at College Park Arena, MARTA’s transit oriented developments and updates on new economic development activity in the region. Speakers at the conference will also examine the impact of small businesses on the region’s development and lead discussions on smart cities, workforce development and transit.
SMDO is sponsored by Georgia Power, Aerotropolis Atlanta and Aerotropolis Atlanta CIDs. Registration is open at www.smdoconference.com.
Photo Credit: City of South Fulton
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