SOUTHAVEN — Private businesses are pitching in $55,000 for a reception hosted by Southaven Mayor Greg Davis and aldermen at the Mississippi Municipal League conference in Biloxi beginning Monday.

The Commercial Appeal reports that the city is providing $25,000.

Davis says Southaven is among several cities that host receptions each year at the MML meeting.

"This reception gives the aldermen and the city of Southaven a chance to network with other municipalities in an informal setting during a statewide conference," Davis said.

Expenses from the 2009 conference were among those cited by state auditors during an investigation of Davis' spending that resulted in an order to repay more than $170,000. Davis, who has repaid about $96,000 with help from supporters.

The Southaven reception is scheduled for Tuesday night at the Beau Rivage, the host hotel for the conference. On Monday night, according to the MML meeting agenda, the cities of Biloxi, Moss Point, Laurel and Hattiesburg are jointly hosting a reception.

MML conference brings more than 3,000 city officials and vendors together for four days.

Despite the ongoing scrutiny of Davis, he and city leaders say it's important to promote the city.

In the past, the Southaven Chamber of Commerce has paid for the reception. But this year, after questions arose about Davis' expenses, the chamber opted out.

"In America, companies can still donate money for causes without there being a conflict," Davis said. "And no one gave money with a pending contract with the city."