July 23, 2026 | More News

Agency Welcomes Two Assistant Planners

Ellie Bernstein and Chase Eubanks joined the Planning Services team as assistant planners this summer.

Ellie is a recent graduate of the University of Tennessee with a degree in Geography with a concentration in Cultural Geography and GIS. The unique perspective of looking at how geography affects the patterns of urban growth and housing ignited her interest in Planning.

She explored that spark through two internships that provided more insight into this work, one with the City of Knoxville’s Housing and Neighborhood Development department, and one with the East Tennessee Development District.

Her passion for planning was solidified after completing a research project that showed her the direct positive impact this work can have on a community.

Though she is just getting started, Ellie quickly identified participating in public outreach for the City’s comprehensive plan as her favorite part of her job thus far. She is also excited to learn more about how our zoning code and planning regulations shape real-world development decisions and is looking forward to supporting monthly Planning Commission cases while continuing to grow into her responsibilities.

Her love of learning extends into her personal life where she enjoys a variety of hobbies and regularly picks up new ones to try. Some favorites include reading, crafting, thrifting, and playing the violin. She has recently started playing tennis and bought a sewing machine so she can start making clothes, especially from thrifted materials.

Meet Chase Eubanks. He’s a Chattanooga native and ETSU graduate who recently moved to Knoxville. His interest in the role economic development and sustainability play in supporting a thriving community inspired him to earn his undergraduate degree in political science and master's degree in public administration.

Prior to joining our team, Chase worked for the City of Knoxville’s Plans Review and Inspections office. His familiarity with the City’s zoning code and development standards from his time in that position helped him transition into his new role. His knowledge of both sides of the process helps him assist people at the front counter and when working on Planning Commission cases.

His role is unique in that he supports both the Planning Services and Transportation Planning Organization teams. He is most excited to learn about transportation planning because infrastructure is a key component of planning. Currently, he is conducting research for a TPO study on how to revitalize alley ways to make them more usable. He hopes to contribute out of the box ideas and to make a positive impact on the future of Knoxville.

Outside of work, he spends time with his girlfriend and their two dogs. They enjoy checking out local places like Stir and Xul and traveling to any place with a good view. Favorite destinations include cruises to the Bahamas and state parks where the natural beauty of our country can be enjoyed. Other hobbies include running, fishing, watching action movies, and cheering on the Vols and all Atlanta sports teams.