The Sammamish Planning Commission is gearing up to develop a city code that will more specifically address homeless encampment permits.

In its February newsletter, the city of Sammamish stated that although Tent City 4 has left the city, there are obvious challenges regarding homeless encampments that still remain.

Mayor Tom Vance noted that King County statistics released in December show most homeless families cannot afford housing in the area. Thirty-three percent are young parents between the ages of 18 and 25, 50 percent of the children are under 6-years-old, 70 percent of parents are not currently employed, 85 percent want employment and 69 percent are homeless for the first time.

Tent City 4 was located at the Mary Queen of Peace Church in Sammamish for three months. After attempting to move down the street to another church, the city adopted a 6-month moratorium on homeless encampments until specific rules and regulations could be developed regarding temporary permits.

Vance said he was impressed – and not surprised – with the passion and dedication Sammamish citizens showed towards helping Tent City residents with food, transportation and many other services.

“In a city that prides itself on being ‘kid-safe and family-friendly,’ many of our citizens have looked beyond their neighborhoods to help those in need,” Vance said.

Many non-profits provide help to the homeless, including the ARAS Foundation, Friends of Youth, Together Center, Committee to End Homelessness, Hopelink, the YMCA, Catholic Community Services and Lifewire, and Vance is encouraging community members to stay involved with the issue.

Comments on the homeless situation can sent to HEC@sammamish.us. They will be available for review both by the Planning Commission and City Council and are considered a public record.

Kelly Montgomery: 425-391-0363; kmontgomery@issaquahreporter.com