Board discusses possible $499,000 purchase of building adjacent to Planetary Brewing, tables to long‑term planning

Board members discussed a potential real‑estate opportunity: the building adjacent to Planetary Brewing was reported as possibly available at about $499,000. The director said the idea was raised to explore options — a second visitor center, an attraction, or leasing — but emphasized the county27s preference that the CVT focus on marketing and product development rather than duplicating staffed visitor centers.

Members noted past renovation and investment in Franklin, mentioning a roughly $250,000 ("a quarter of $1,000,000") investment there and a total project investment figure of about $750,000. One member recalled prior discussions that renovation needs once reached estimates of up to $1,000,000 when Planetary Brewing purchased its building. Given those possible costs and the board27s long‑term priorities, the matter was sent to the long‑term planning committee for more detailed review rather than acted on at the meeting.

Board members emphasized preliminary discussion only and instructed staff to have the long‑term planning committee evaluate feasibility, costs and alignment with strategic priorities before any purchase decision.