City Planning Office introduces new appointment system for in-person and virtual consultations

Sammamish City officials are enhancing community engagement by introducing a new appointment booking system for residents seeking planning assistance. During the Planning Commission Meeting on April 3, 2025, city staff highlighted the importance of balancing customer service with their ongoing workload in plan reviews.

Lena, a key staff member at the front counter, plays a vital role in managing incoming calls and directing them appropriately. However, city officials acknowledged that staff members are often deeply involved in plan reviews, making it challenging to answer calls immediately. To address this, they have implemented a system where staff can collect calls and return them at the end of the day or the following day.

Recognizing the community's desire for more direct interaction, the city has launched a bookings app that allows residents to schedule appointments with planners. This system offers flexibility for both virtual and in-person meetings, ensuring that residents can receive the guidance they need. However, officials emphasized that residents must first complete a project guidance process to ensure that planners can adequately prepare for the meeting.

This initiative aims to improve communication between city staff and residents, ultimately streamlining the planning process and enhancing service delivery. As Sammamish continues to grow, these efforts reflect a commitment to meeting the needs of the community while maintaining efficient operations.