Isaac Yilma has joined McGuireWoods’ highly ranked public finance practice as a partner in Atlanta, bringing more than a decade of experience advising local governments and underwriters on financings for infrastructure, affordable housing and economic development projects.
Yilma serves as bond counsel, disclosure counsel and underwriters’ counsel in connection with a broad range of publicly offered and privately placed tax-exempt and taxable financings for local governments, airports, water and sewer systems, special taxing districts, sports facilities, higher education institutions and affordable housing developments. He has represented clients in connection with some of Georgia’s most notable governmental and economic development financings.
“Isaac’s significant experience in municipal government financings, multifamily housing projects and economic development transactions strengthens our bench and provides enormous benefits for our clients,” said Kay McNab, chair of the firm’s public finance practice.
Yilma is the second partner to join the firm’s Atlanta office this year, following the arrival of healthcare partner Kristen McDermott Woodrum. He joins an Atlanta public finance team that includes partner Kenneth M. Neighbors, who represents clients in negotiating and financing some of the region’s most transformative development projects.
“Isaac is a highly respected and sought-after bond counsel whose skill and insight enhance our public finance presence in the Southeast and nationally,” said Chris Greene, managing partner of McGuireWoods’ Atlanta office.
McGuireWoods’ public finance lawyers pioneered the use of strategies such as public-private partnerships; special revenue, tax and assessment pledges; lease financings; and tax and revenue anticipation notes to achieve clients’ objectives. The firm has served as bond counsel to more than 250 counties, cities, towns, service authorities, sanitary districts and other issuing entities.
“McGuireWoods is a national leader in developing sound, innovative financing strategies to help clients achieve their objectives,” Yilma said. “I am excited to join this talented team and I look forward to putting my experience to work for our clients.”