City's IT team improves permit processing efficiency and launches 24/7 application portal

In a recent meeting of the Kent City Committee of the Whole, city officials discussed significant improvements in the permitting process, highlighting the transition to a more agile methodology that has enhanced efficiency and responsiveness. The meeting, held on March 4, 2025, focused on the ongoing implementation of the Amanda permitting system, which aims to streamline operations and reduce wait times for residents seeking permits.

City representatives noted that the new system operates in sprints, allowing for the deployment of new functionalities every one to two months. This iterative approach is designed to tackle the most frequently issued permits first, such as those for single-family homes and utility services, which account for over 5,000 permits annually. Officials emphasized that prioritizing these high-volume permits has led to marked improvements in turnaround times, particularly for residential applications.

Council Member Fenchurch raised concerns about previous long wait times for permits and inquired about the current efficiency levels. The response indicated that the city has made significant strides, with the permitting process now functioning 24/7, allowing residents to submit applications at their convenience. This flexibility has reportedly alleviated previous bottlenecks, enabling quicker processing and issuance of permits.

While specific percentage improvements were not provided during the meeting, officials expressed confidence in the ongoing enhancements to the system. They acknowledged that the transition from the older Kiva system to Amanda initially caused delays but noted that these issues have been resolved. The team is now focused on refining the process for more complex permits, such as land use applications, which are still in development.

As the city continues to adapt and improve its permitting processes, officials remain committed to finding efficiencies and enhancing service delivery for Kent residents. The next steps will involve further refining the system and addressing any remaining challenges, ensuring that the city can meet the growing demands for permits in a timely manner.