The Sammamish Planning Commission meeting on July 17, 2025, highlighted significant community concerns regarding the proposed expansion of the town center to accommodate 4,000 housing units. Residents expressed their apprehensions about environmental impacts, public safety, and financial implications associated with the development.

During the meeting, several speakers voiced their disappointment with the city council's decision to adopt the 4,000-unit option. One resident emphasized the overwhelming opposition from the community, noting that 800 comments and a petition signed by 2,000 individuals were submitted against the plan. Concerns were raised about the environmental consequences, particularly the loss of mature trees and the potential harm to local salmon-bearing creeks. The speaker argued that without stringent green development standards and adequate public transit, the environmental benefits of multifamily housing would not be realized.

Public safety was another major topic, with residents questioning the adequacy of current evacuation plans in light of increased traffic and population density. One speaker recounted a lengthy wait to drop off garbage, illustrating the potential dangers of gridlock during emergencies. They urged planners to improve evacuation strategies before adding more units.

Financial transparency was also a key concern. Residents pointed out the lack of detailed fiscal notes in the town center plan, questioning who would bear the costs of infrastructure improvements and how the city would manage its budget deficit. They called for clear financial projections to ensure taxpayers understand the economic implications of the development.

The meeting concluded with a call for the Planning Commission to advocate for the community's interests, emphasizing the need for alternative solutions that prioritize both affordable housing and environmental preservation. Residents expressed a desire for creative approaches to development that do not compromise the area's natural resources or public safety.