Affordable housing took center stage at the Sammamish City Planning Commission meeting on July 17, 2025, as community members voiced concerns over the city’s development plans. Residents expressed skepticism about the city’s ability to deliver on its promise of affordable housing, fearing that current proposals may simply benefit developers without ensuring that new units remain accessible to families and young residents.

One resident highlighted the urgency of the issue, stating, “It’s not about just the numbers, it’s affordability,” emphasizing the need for housing options that allow young families to stay in the community. Concerns were raised about the proposed doubling of housing units to 2,100 without sufficient restrictions to guarantee affordability. “We are giving a blank check to the developer,” the resident warned, urging the commission to conduct more in-depth studies before moving forward.

Commission members echoed these sentiments, questioning the clarity and effectiveness of the current plans. One member pointed out a disconnect between public perception and the reality of the development process, noting that many community members believe there are firm plans in place when, in fact, the proposals remain vague and unfinalized.

The discussion also touched on the complexities of zoning and development incentives. A city official explained that while the original environmental impact statement suggested a cap of 2,000 units, this was not a hard limit. The conversation revealed that the city’s current zoning laws and incentives could potentially allow for more units, but the existing framework has not been fully utilized.

As the meeting concluded, the commission acknowledged the need for further studies and discussions to address the community's concerns. The focus on affordable housing remains a critical issue for Sammamish, with residents and officials alike recognizing that careful planning is essential to ensure that future developments meet the needs of all community members. The next steps will involve deeper analysis and continued dialogue to navigate the challenges of growth while prioritizing affordability.