Research Atlanta, 1965-2005

Research Atlanta is an independent, non-profit organization which studies community problems affecting the metropolitan Atlanta area. The organization developed and presented reliable information about community issues to public officials and other Atlanta area leaders aiding in informed policy planning and implementation and to the general public so that it could better understand and participate in decisions affecting the community. Research Atlanta published concise, well-documented reports dealing with local issues such as public education, taxation, governmental structure, housing, police services and transportation. Each report involved extensive data collection and interviews with public and private leaders.

Founded by Michael H. Trotter, Research Atlanta is governed by a fifteen-person board of directors. A small, full-time, professional staff conducted the research, supplemented by college and university interns. Funding was provided by contributions from businesses, foundations and individuals. On December 1, 2005, two other organizations merged with Research Atlanta, the Metro Group and the Regional Leadership Forum, creating a new vehicle for engaging the public in the development of broad based solutions to regional challenges.