Sammamish residents push back against new affordable housing fee and building codes

During the Sammamish Planning Commission meeting on April 17, 2025, community members voiced significant concerns regarding new housing regulations and their implications for local residents. The discussions highlighted the challenges posed by recent changes in affordable housing requirements and building codes, which could impact the ability of families to build homes in the area.

One resident expressed frustration over the application of a new requirement mandating that at least 10% of units in new housing developments be affordable for households earning up to 80% of the area median income (AMI). The resident questioned how this requirement would apply to single-family lots, arguing that it is impractical to construct a fractional portion of a home to meet this standard. They emphasized that the associated fees for affordable housing could create an unfair financial burden, particularly for lifelong residents looking to build their own homes.

Another resident, Kevin Schmollick, shared his family's struggle to comply with a new maximum building footprint of 3,000 square feet, which he argued does not accommodate the needs of larger families or those requiring accessible housing. He called for a reconsideration of this regulation, suggesting that it should allow for more flexibility to meet the unique needs of families while still promoting affordable housing.

The meeting also included discussions on proposed amendments to the city’s development code, aimed at clarifying definitions and streamlining the approval process for subdivisions. The commission proposed shifting final approval authority from the city council to a hearing examiner, which would help clarify the process and reduce unnecessary delays.

As the city moves forward with these discussions, the voices of residents like those at the meeting underscore the importance of balancing the need for affordable housing with the practical realities of building homes that meet the diverse needs of the community. The Planning Commission is expected to continue addressing these concerns in upcoming workshops, with the next meeting scheduled for May 6, where further input will be sought before final recommendations are made to the city council.