Developers, business leaders and residents invited to Mayor’s Development Roundtable

(April 26, 2012) - The community is invited to learn about topics relevant to Oklahoma City’s growth and development by registering to attend the eleventh annual Mayor’s Development Roundtable from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 16 at the Cox Convention Center. 

The half-day conference hosted by Oklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett features national and local speakers, local project updates, a discussion panel and a ‘super panel’ roundtable including audience Q&A.

Registration is $75 per person. Seating is limited. Those interested can register online at www.okc.gov/planning/roundtable or call 604-0041.

The event kicks off with Salt Lake City Mayor Ralph Becker, who will overview Salt Lake’s remarkable transformation and how collaboration and partnerships were key to implementing the community’s vision.

Back by popular demand is the “20/20 Lightning Round,” where presenters have 20 slides, and 20 seconds per slide to update attendees on local development. The lightning round will include presentations on the local market, MAPS 3, the downtown elementary school and the Alliance for Economic Development of Oklahoma City. A segment of the lightning round will showcase successfully redeveloped areas such as Paseo, Plaza District, Automobile Alley and the Film District.

Event emcee Judy Hatfield, owner-principal of Equity Commercial Realty, will lead a super panel entitled, “Show Me the Money.” Panelists John Slay, Dick Tanenbaum, and Chuck Wiggin will discuss how developers in Oklahoma City and across the nation struggle to get deals funded, and the creative ways they are navigating these hurdles.

Attendees will also learn about Austin’s “Mueller District,” a 700-acre former airport that was transformed into a vibrant, mixed-use community just three miles from Austin’s downtown. Pam Hefner, project manager with the City of Austin will discuss the framework of this successful public-private partnership, and show examples of the types of development that are drawing new residents and businesses to the area.

The conference will conclude with Mayor Mick Cornett’s keynote address during lunch, followed by a presentation of the Mayor’s Award for Outstanding Development to Devon Energy.

“What we build today will influence the quality of life experienced by our children and grandchildren,” said Mayor Cornett. “I hope this year’s conference will provide residents with information, ideas and inspiration to help them contribute to our city’s continued renaissance.”

The event is organized through Oklahoma City’s Planning Department. 

Contact:  Kristy Yager
297-2550 / 863-2831