Supporting our many client projects, BEI has actively created solutions to meet the demand for sound planning and strategic assessments, using key economic information to inform decisions regarding proposed projects, public policy, and programs to bring multiple voices and issues to the table. Ms. Brion’s core focus is to serve the broader community and bring strategic planning to generate the largest public benefit possible from each assignment.
Brion Economics, Inc., regularly collaborates with the following individuals or firms on a regular basis. BEI teams with other firms and disciplines depending on the specific needs of individual assignments.
Economics and Policy Analysis
Michelle Nilsson
Nilsson ConsultingMichelle Nilsson has worked on most of BEI’s studies as an associate since 2002. She holds an M.A. in Urban Planning from UCLA and recently completed law school. In addition to her work with BEI, Michelle has extensive experience working with nonprofit organizations. Ms. Nilsson is based in Los Angeles, CA.
Richard Berkson
Berkson AssociatesRichard L. Berkson has more than 30 years of experience evaluating the fiscal impacts of development proposals and has prepared financial and fiscal analyses of numerous large-scale, mixed-use projects in San Francisco and the Bay Area. Recently, he managed and prepared the following studies:
- Municipal Service Reviews (MSRs) Sanitary District (EPASD), and West Bay Sanitary District (WBSD), East Palo Alto
- Mountain House Community Services District (MHCSD) Incorporation Feasibility Study, Mountain House
- Fiscal Analysis of Balboa Reservoir Project, San Francisco
- Economic Impact Study of Self-Storage Project, San Francisco
Mark Walsh, CPA
Fiscal and Financial AnalystMark Walsh specializes in local government finance and communications. For Brion Economics, Inc., Mr. Walsh provides fiscal and financial forensics, research, and analysis. Mr. Walsh happily chases down technical information with the exuberance of a yellow lab fetching a soggy tennis ball for BEI. Previously he was director of finance for the County of Marin and director of information systems for the County of Sonoma. Mr. Walsh is a recognized expert in accounting and financial analytics, speaking on ratio analysis, technology budgeting, and excellence in management for the Government Finance Officers Association of the US and Canada. Recent work includes: City Charter review; utility systems rate communications; local fiscal health benchmarks and reporting; best practices review – government budget and financials; and finance director transition planning and onboarding support for local jurisdictions.