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Ellen M. Gustafson advises clients on a range of legislative, budget and regulatory matters, with a particular focus on matters in front of the New York City Council.

Ellen represents not for profit organizations through the New York City budget process. She advises clients on virtually all aspects of the budget process including but not limited to: submitting applications, advocating with key stake holders for initiative funding, award registration and purpose of funding issues. Ellen also assists clients on the introduction and negotiation of legislation at the New York City Council as well as the rulemaking process and agency implementation.

Ellen’s practice extends to the hospitality field, where she represents clients’ interests on liquor licensing and related matters before community boards and city agencies, as well as New York State Liquor Authority hearing officers and commissioners.

Ellen previously served as director of operations for former New York City Council Member Dan Garodnick’s office, where she learned the ins and outs of the Council and cultivated relationships across all levels of government which she continues to maintain to assist clients.

Capabilities

Experience

  • Director of Operations, New York City Councilmember Daniel R. Garodnick, 2014-2017
  • Secured essential service designations from Council Finance for clients to continue receiving FY20 funding during COVID-19.
  • Certification of an Open-Air Café for a client in Manhattan Community Board 5.
  • Created a plan for pre-k seats in district that resulted in over 900 additional seats in two years.°
  • Ensured completion of new 8 million Solar1 building (Summer 2020) by the New York City Economic Development Committee on East Side of Manhattan through multiple committee meetings and contract negotiations.°

°The above representations were handled by Ms. Gustafson prior to her joining Greenberg Traurig, LLP.

Recognition & Leadership

  • Listed, City & State, New York City 40 Under 40, 2021
  • Team Member, City & State, Top 50 NYC Lobbyists, 2021
  • Team Member, a Law360 “Hospitality Practice Group of the Year,” 2021

Credentials

Education
  • J.D., New York Law School, 2012
  • B.A., Washington and Lee University, 2009
Admissions
  • New York
  • Texas