Economic & Planning Systems, Inc. (EPS) is pleased to announce the promotion of Julie Cooper to Principal. Julie has served as a leader of EPS's Los Angeles office for the past six years and brings a wealth of experience related to real estate economics, municipal finance, strategic economic development, and public policy. Since joining EPS in 2018, Julie has managed a variety of land use projects throughout Southern California, forging strong relationships with public and private clients through clear, objective analyses to inform decision-making.

Recent notable projects include work on two subregional studies evaluating the opportunities for inclusionary housing programs for members of the Gateway Cities Council of Governments and San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments in Los Angeles County, in support of their Housing Element implementation efforts. Julie has also been a leader in EPS's work on Vehicle Mile Traveled (VMT) mitigation strategies, including work on VMT mitigation fees, banks, and exchanges. She has additionally managed EPS's work on numerous General Plans and Specific Plans across Southern California, including recent and on-going projects in the cities of Lawndale, San Jacinto, Fullerton, San Marcos, Lake Forest, Lomita, Pico Rivera, and Paramount.

Julie is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Planning Association (APA), Urban Land Institute (ULI), and Lambda Alpha International (LAI). She received her Master's in Public Policy from the University of Chicago Harris School, where she also completed the School's Certificate in Municipal Finance program. Prior to joining EPS, Julie was an Associate at Development Strategies, a St. Louis-based real estate and economic development consulting firm.

As a Principal, Julie will continue to provide exemplary technical and advisory services while advancing the firm’s successful operations and empowering staff to elevate their consulting practice.