Brighton council declines authorization to buy Brighton Manor after resident objections and due‑diligence concerns

The Brighton Town Council voted against authorizing the mayor to complete the purchase of a property at 8121 Brighton Loop (referred to in discussion as Brighton Manor) after reviewing due‑diligence findings and hearing strong neighborhood opposition.

Council described several practical problems with the building: main living space on the second floor that would make public‑access and Americans with Disabilities Act upgrades costly (an elevator and additional stairs would be needed), a deep gravel‑floor basement that county rules had restricted from more permanent conversion, and a small lot that limited future redevelopment options. Council members also voiced reluctance to put the town in a short‑term rental business or to spend significant funds to retrofit a building whose layout was poorly suited for municipal use.

Multiple neighbors and residents attending in person urged the council not to proceed, characterizing the area as residential and warning that a civic center or employee housing would stress narrow local roads. The council discussed alternative uses such as holding the property for future options or employee housing but concluded that short‑term rental operation or expensive retrofits were not prudent fiscal choices at this time.

A roll‑call vote was taken on a motion authorizing the mayor to purchase the property; the vote recorded a majority of 'No' responses. The council directed town counsel to notify the real‑estate representatives that the town will not proceed and to seek return of earnest money.