who we are
know/how is at the intersection of process, politics, history, and equity. We advocate within neighborhoods on behalf of developers. We build confidence by facilitating collaboration between our clients and stakeholders on land use, planning, and economic development. With tenacity for delivering “yes”, know/how is passionate about uplifting communities through engagement, while respecting local history and with an excitement for the future.
​
We get there by putting a priority on relationships—with clients, civic leaders and communities. With over 25 years of expertise in land-use development, know/how is committed to success for stakeholders, maintaining the presiding spirit of communities and broadening inclusivity.
Eric Shabsis
A proud second-generation Angelino, Eric Shabsis is passionate about engaging communities to embrace change. Growing up in Culver City, Eric learned about community engagement starting at the age of 10, when he volunteered on local political campaigns and regularly attended City Council and School Board meetings “for fun.” Eric’s younger years foreshadowed his professional trajectory and his passion for advocacy and change-making.
After attending the University of California, Berkeley and Harvard Kennedy School of Government, Eric returned home to work in politics, hone his advocacy skills, and fulfill a commitment to public service. Eric is proud to have worked at all levels of government – federal, state, and local – culminating his public sector career as the Budget and Policy Director for the Mayor of Los Angeles.
Eric transitioned to the private sector, initially working for Caruso, where he managed a team that built broad community and political support for a premier lifestyle center to be integrated at one of Southern California’s iconic architectural treasures. Eric’s success sparked interest by other developers and real estate professionals, who sought his counsel and strategy to get their projects to “YES!”
For nearly two decades, Eric continues to fulfill his passion by assisting his clients in community engagement and government affairs. He is fortunate to partner with visionaries who invest in our local communities and bring about meaningful change to both policy and the built environment. Eric is well-known for the relationships he maintains with elected officials, government staff, and community members.
Beyond the professional, Eric is committed to his community, previously serving on the Board of the Westside Neighborhood Council, and as a founding parent of a charter middle located in Mid City Los Angeles. Eric was also active on the Booster Club board of his children’s public elementary school and served as its and the neighboring school’s liaison with the City Councilmember’s office and other Los Angeles city departments.