Franklin staff and Chartwell discuss 10‑year extension of Cool Springs Conference Center operating agreement

City staff and Chartwell Hospitality representatives briefed aldermen at the Aug. 26 work session on a proposed extension of the operating agreement for the Cool Springs Conference Center, asking the board to consider extending the current contract through Oct. 2037.

City staff said the initial operational agreement among the City of Franklin, Williamson County and the hotel owner dates to 1997, the conference center opened in 1999, and the existing operative term was extended in 2013 to October 2027. The staff presentation said Chartwell Hospitality has owned the hotel and operated the conference center since 2018 and maintains a local corporate office that supports on‑site staff.

The proposed addendum would extend the operator’s term by 10 years through October 2037. Staff said there are no changes to the operator’s fee structure in the proposed extension and that the conference center and hotel operate as a single, connected facility with shared mechanical systems, kitchen and laundry. Staff added the draft agreement includes a midpoint review at the five‑year mark and that Chartwell and county counterparts completed a market study showing continued positive positioning for the existing operation.

Aldermen asked for time to discuss contract terms with Chartwell before a vote; staff said the Williamson County Commission plans to consider the extension on Sept. 8 and the city would consider it on Sept. 9. Staff also said the current agreement does not preclude future expansion of the facility and that a renovation currently under way will be complete shortly.

Michael Sanders, identified as a Chartwell Hospitality corporate representative, attended the meeting to answer questions. No final vote on the extension was recorded at the Aug. 26 work session.