About us

Sawtooth Development Group, LLC was formed in 2000 by it’s current managing partners, Shane Felker and Clay Sammis. They have a proven track record of successfully designing, developing, managing, and selling or leasing residential, mixed-use, office, university, retail, and industrial projects throughout the western United States. Each of these development projects has been completed on time, on budget, and always-exceeding expectations by our knowledgeable and experienced team. “Building Better Environments” isn’t just a mantra for Sawtooth Development Group, LLC, it’s what we have been doing for the past 20 years.

Team

Mr. Felker is a San Diego native with a degree in Economics from the University of California, Santa Barbara. Mr. Felker began his real estate career in commercial leasing and sales in 1996. In 2000, Mr. Felker formed Sawtooth Development Group with Clay Sammis and began construction of high-end coastal homes and residential subdivisions. Under Mr. Felker’s direction, Sawtooth Development Group, LLC has since grown into a commercial developer of office, medical office, educational facilities, retail and industrial projects in addition to the single and multi-family residential developments that Sawtooth Development Group, LLC has produced since its inception. Mr. Felker lives in Ketchum, Idaho with his wife Hillary, daughters Sydney and Kendall and dogs Bailey and Moose.

Mr. Sammis is a San Diego Native with a degree in environmental studies from the University of California, Santa Barbara. Mr. Sammis has been engaged in real estate development since 1990. For 10 years Mr. Sammis was involved in the development and construction of more than 1.5 million feet of commercial space and over 4,000 residential units for Sammis Properties. In 2000, Mr. Sammis formed Sawtooth Development with Shane Felker. Through Sawtooth Development Group, LLC, Mr. Sammis has developed and constructed several 75,000 square foot university campuses, residential subdivisions, high-end residential homes and various other commercial and mixed-use properties throughout the western United States. Mr. Sammis lives in Ketchum Idaho with his wife Stephanie, three boys Carter, Paxton, and Kai, dog Willow and bearded dragon Sparkles.

Scott Desserault, *Chief Financial Officer*

Scott Desserault brings over 25 years of strategic finance, operations, and leadership experience to Sawtooth Development Group. A Washington native and CPA (Inactive), Scott holds a B.A. in Business Administration with a focus in Accounting from the University of Washington.

Throughout his career, Scott has driven growth and efficiency across diverse industries—including real estate development, adventure travel, apparel, and beverage. His track record includes managing the full financial lifecycle of a $13M condominium project, securing over $15M in financing across multiple institutions, and leading the self-implementation of NetSuite ERP to support a 300% growth trajectory.

Scott’s approach blends analytical rigor with entrepreneurial agility. He has successfully coordinated investor relations, implemented scalable systems, optimized operational processes, and developed financial strategies that deliver measurable results. At Sawtooth, he oversees finance, operations, and HR functions, guiding the team through projects across residential, commercial, educational, and industrial real estate sectors.

Scott lives in Ketchum, Idaho with his daughter Emma and their dog Bech, where he enjoys the outdoors and staying connected to his community.

Brian Mitchell, Director of Investments

Mr. Mitchell is a seasoned real estate professional who began his career in 2011 as a commercial real estate broker in Portland, Oregon. In 2020, he transitioned into industrial development, where he sourced and executed deals across Washington and Idaho. At Sawtooth Development Group, Brian is responsible for overseeing new acquisition and development opportunities throughout the western United States. Based in Boise, he spends his free time exploring the Pacific Northwest on one of his motorcycles.

**Brandon Swanson, Development Manager**

Originally from Southern California, Brandon Swanson moved to Boise in 2014, drawn by a passion for the outdoors and a desire for new adventure. After studying at Cal State San Marcos, he transitioned into a career in construction, bringing a diverse skill set shaped by roles in real estate, project management, and architectural coordination.

With a background that includes managing multimillion-dollar commercial and residential builds, his work is defined by a focus on collaboration, precision, and proactive problem-solving.

Outside of the office, Brandon is an avid outdoor enthusiast. Whether exploring the Pacific Northwest by motorcycle, mountain bike, or hiking trail, he’s always seeking his next adventure. He lives in Boise with his wife Jordan and their dog Winston