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Brown & Weinraub Expands by Involving Award-Winning Land Use Team

Recently, Brown & Weinraub, one of New York’s foremost lobbying firms, announced a notable expansion in their operations by onboarding a group of highly experienced professionals from the acclaimed land use and zoning practice of the now-defunct lobbying firm, Capalino & Co. This strategic move not only strengthens their influence in the government affairs landscape but also enriches their capacity to serve clients navigating the complexities of land utilization and zoning in the dynamic New York City environment.

A Glimpse into the New Team

The new hires include six prominent figures, each bringing a wealth of experience and a proven track record in handling development projects across all five boroughs of New York City. Among them, Mark Thompson, a founding member of Capalino, has a distinguished history of working for the City of New York in various capacities, accumulating decades of expertise in securing funding for non-profits and facilitating public approvals for businesses. His educational background includes degrees from the Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government and the University of Southern California.

Brian Cook is another exceptional addition. With his extensive background as a Director of Land Use Planning and Development for the Manhattan Borough President, he has played pivotal roles in making key recommendations on zoning and land use. His experience evaluating neighborhood development proposals and supporting business improvement districts positions him as a vital asset for Brown & Weinraub.

Similarly, Matt Green, who served as the District Director for New York City Council Speaker Corey Johnson, has overseen major initiatives related to affordable housing and public safety, enhancing his ability to work intricately with various stakeholders including community groups and government agencies. His previous engagements at the Riders Alliance, coupled with a rich history of advocating for vital transit improvements, underpin his prowess in fostering essential community collaborations.

Keith Tubbs, another significant recruit, contributed as a Senior Advisor to the Bronx Borough President, where he managed intergovernmental relations and policies. His extensive background in civil rights and labor organizations further enriches the fabric of expertise at Brown & Weinraub.

Richard Barth, with a distinguished career at the helm of the New York City Planning Department, adds a robust understanding of strategic planning and community development. His leadership in shaping comprehensive land use plans including innovative rezonings is expected to enhance Brown & Weinraub’s ability to tackle complex development challenges.

Finally, Christopher Boylan, with rich experience at the Metropolitan Transportation Authority and prior leadership roles during Mayor Edward Koch’s administration, brings an invaluable perspective to the firm's consulting endeavors. His comprehensive understanding of transit and community relations equips Brown & Weinraub with the tools necessary to offer cutting-edge strategies in advocacy and development.

What This Means for Brown & Weinraub

According to David Weinraub, the founding partner of Brown & Weinraub, the addition of this first-class team marks a significant enhancement to the firm’s capabilities. “I have been a fan of Jim Capalino and his team for decades. Their decision to join our firm reflects the commitment we share in helping entrepreneurs and developers realize extraordinary projects in New York,” said Weinraub.

This strategic amalgamation enables Brown & Weinraub to position itself at the forefront of land use advocacy in New York, catering effectively to the nuanced needs of clients striving to navigate the multifaceted landscape of urban development amid evolving regulatory frameworks.

Conclusion

By bringing together the most accomplished land use practitioners in the realm, Brown & Weinraub not only showcases its commitment to enhancing service versatility but also affirms its intention to lead the charge in realizing impactful and forward-thinking urban development solutions. As the firm gears up to tackle the challenges of tomorrow, stakeholders can expect invaluable insights and strategic support that drive innovation and job creation in New York City.