Development News for Sammamish, Washington

Council Agrees on Subcommittee Approach for Interim City Manager Selection

The council discussed the process for selecting an interim city manager. Recognizing the limited pool of candidates and high demand, the council was asked to authorize a subcommittee to conduct initial interviews and vetting. Council members debated whether the full council should be involved in interviews or if a subcommittee process was more efficient to avoid losing candidates. A motion was passed to authorize the subcommittee to interview candidates and return with recommendations.

Building 120 Options Debated, YMCA Lease Extended

The council reviewed options for the future use of Building 120 and extended the YMCA's lease. Options for Building 120 included a market rate ground lease (not recommended), a subsidized lease to an outside operator, city annexation for internal use (not justified by needs assessment), selling the property, redeveloping the site for a public facility or affordable housing, and adding sustainability requirements/LEED certification. Staff recommended pursuing a lease to an outside operator for community use. The council voted to continue with Phase 2 of the community input process and also explore leasing to an outside operator and selling the property concurrently. Separately, the council voted to extend the YMCA's lease for Building 120 for 39 hours per week, with the YMCA covering custodial costs and having the option to sublease, as recommended by staff.