James Brasuell, AICP is the former editorial director of Planetizen and is now a senior public affairs specialist at the Southern California Association of Governments. James managed all editorial content and direction for Planetizen from 2014 to 2023, and was promoted from manging editor to editorial director in 2021. After a first career as a class five white water river guide in Trinity County in Northern California, James started his career in Los Angeles as a volunteer at a risk reduction center in Skid Row. Prior to joining Planetizen, James worked at the Cal Poly Pomona College of Environmental Design, as an editor at Curbed LA, as editor of The Planning Report, and as a freelance contributor for The Architect’s Newspaper, the Urban Land Institute – Los Angeles Chapter, FORM, KCET, and the California Planning & Development Report.
The Winners and Losers of Utility Rates
An example from St. Louis County shows one way that sprawl is subsidized by areas closer to the regional center.
A Transportation Benefit District That Also Benefits the Police Department
The city of Woodland, Washington, offers a case study in government funding. Voters there will consider a sales tax as part of its transportation benefit district, but the benefit could extend to the police department as well.
Realtors Group Traces 35 Years of the Real Estate Market
A new study by the National Association of Realtors reveals trends in the real estate market—including a finding on the critical issue of Millennial preferences in housing.
Pittsburgh to Oakland BRT Connection Taking Shape
Details are emerging about the how and where of a proposed a bus rapid transit (BRT) connection between Downtown Pittsburgh and Oakland.
A Legal Battle Over Short-Term Rentals Erupts in New York City
Suddenly, the business practices of Airbnb seem to be under attack in many locations—including one of the company's most lucrative markets.