: Firm Professionals

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Arts, Clark College

Post-Graduate Studies, Georgia State University

BOARDS AND MEMBERSHIPS

Fulton County Board of Commissioners

National Association of Counties (NACo)

AWARDS & HONORS

Recipient of nearly 300 awards and recognitions from entities such as:

The White House
National Association of Counties
2007 East Point Business of the Year
Georgia Trend Magazine
South Fulton Chamber of Commerce
Clark Atlanta University
Georgia State University
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and numerous churches, colleges, schools and organizations

Michael Hightower is the Founder and Managing Partner of The Collaborative Firm, LLC. Having nearly thirty years of experience in the public, private, and educational arenas, Michael provides a wealth of experience in public policy, with an emphasis on planning, economic development and local governance issues. His value is particularly evident through his proven track record of forging public-private partnerships in communities throughout metropolitan Atlanta.

Prior to establishing The Collaborative Firm in 2001, Michael served over seven years on the College Park City Council, and more than fourteen years as a Fulton County Commissioner. During much of his tenure on the Board of Commissioners, Michael served as Vice-Chairman, and was a member of several boards and committees. He also served as President of the National Association of Counties (NACo), focusing on welfare reform, affordable housing, and sustainable communities.

In addition to his public service, Michael’s professional experience includes working as Director of Community Development at Barton Malow Company, which provides design and construction services throughout the nation. Prior to joining Barton Malow, Mr. Hightower served in the Affirmative Actions Office of the Financial Affairs Division at Georgia State University.

REPRESENTATIVE PROJECT EXPERIENCE

Clayton County Zoning Ordinance Update:
Collaborated efforts of the Board of Commissioners, County Staff, and citizens to facilitate a complete update of the Zoning Ordinance, Subdivision Regulations, and Tree Preservation Ordinance for unincorporated Clayton County.

Clayton County Zoning Overlay Districts:
Partnered with the Board of Commissioners and County Staff to identify areas that would benefit from additional zoning guidelines, and to establish six overlay districts in unincorporated Clayton County.

Scottdale Revitalization Plan:
Worked closely with the Housing Authority of DeKalb County, DeKalb County Board of Commissioners, and various DeKalb County Departments to establish a revitalization plan for the Scottdale Community in unincorporated DeKalb County.

City of East Point Livable Centers Initiative:
Led public involvement efforts for the LCI study, identifying ways to capitalize on local amenities and encourage a full range of housing and employment opportunities within Downtown East Point.

Riverdale Town Center Livable Centers Initiative:
Engaged community stakeholders in order to gather input and ensure open communication between elected officials, City staff, and citizens throughout the visioning process of the Riverdale Town Center.

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