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James Casso, a member of the firm's public law group, has served as city attorney and redevelopment agency counsel to the City of La Puente since 2001. He also serves as general counsel to the Community Development Commission of the City of South El Monte. In addition, he served as interim city attorney and redevelopment agency counsel for the City of Lynwood in 2003 and as City Attorney to the City of Pico Rivera from 2001-2007.Mr. Casso advises the City of La Puente on all aspects of their legal affairs. He has assisted the City with substantial real property development, redevelopment, purchase, sale, lease and financing transactions. Those transactions have involved complex land use, planning and zoning issues, economic development and finance, redevelopment projects, mixed use developments, public/private partnerships, owner participation agreements, disposition and development agreements and remediation and other environmental-related agreements. Jamie also has developed an expertise in municipal election law matters and Brown Act compliance issues. In 2003, while serving the City of Lynwood, he successfully defended the City in a lawsuit which sought a court ordered recall election.In addition to his legal practice, Jamie has over 25 years of political and public policy experience. He served as the long-time Chief of Staff for former U.S. Congressman Esteban E. Torres and has served as general corporate counsel for several Los Angeles based businesses, providing advice on general business matters, strategic planning, commercial law and representation before state and federal governmental agencies.Mr. Casso has lectured at many conferences and seminars before corporate leaders, community activists and local elected officials regarding federal legislation and programs. He helped establish a non-profit community development corporation dedicated to the creation of low income housing, economic development and environmental remediation. Mr. Casso also serves on the Board of Directors of Citrus Valley Health Partners and New Bedford Panoramex. He earned his J.D. at Georgetown University and received his B.A. degree at the University of California at San Diego. | 