JC considers offer on property near Publix for hotel development

Johnson City will consider a $1.1 million offer for 2.5 acres of property it owns near Publix supermarket, with the prospective buyer planning a hotel at the location. The land on Novus Drive is part of the former Optimist Park and is just off State of Franklin Road near the intersection with West Market Street. The buyer is Neal Patel of Vintage Hotel Group, who has been involved with other lodging development in the city. If the agreement is approved, Patel will owe $20,000 earnest money and have 120 days of due diligence. If he decides to purchase the property, Johnson City commissioners will hold three readings on an ordinance to convey that property to him.