Sammamish Officials Discuss Impact Fees for Affordable Housing Units

During the Sammamish City Planning Commission meeting on July 24, 2025, discussions centered on the city's approach to affordable housing and the associated impact fees. A key topic was the current policy that limits affordable housing calculations to units priced at 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI). This restriction has raised questions about the effectiveness of the city's impact fees in promoting diverse housing options.

Commission members expressed concerns that the existing impact fee structure is too simplistic and does not adequately incentivize the construction of affordable units. One member suggested that a more nuanced approach could be beneficial, proposing that impact fees be adjusted based on various factors such as unit size and affordability levels. This could potentially encourage developers to build a wider range of affordable housing options.

The discussion highlighted the need for a reevaluation of the impact fee formula in light of new state laws requiring more detailed categorization of fees. The commission is considering changes that would allow for reductions in impact fees for different levels of AMI, which could help lower the overall costs for developers and make affordable housing more viable in Sammamish.

A significant point raised was the idea of completely exempting affordable units from impact fees. One commissioner argued that if the city is genuinely committed to increasing affordable housing, it should take bold steps, such as eliminating these fees for units already designated as affordable. This perspective reflects a growing urgency to address the housing crisis in the community.

As the commission moves forward, they plan to refine the code governing impact fees and affordable housing, seeking feedback from both the council and the community. The goal is to create a more effective framework that not only supports the development of affordable housing but also balances the financial implications for the city and its residents. The outcomes of these discussions could significantly shape Sammamish's housing landscape in the coming years.