Patch Year In Review: Franklin's Biggest Stories From 2021

FRANKLIN, WI — Franklin saw a lot in 2021. From unique new businesses such as a barbecue franchise or a luxury picnic business opening up, to a new alderman being selected by the common council or the 1st official Franklin Christmas parade.

Here are some of Franklin's biggest and most unique stories from 2021:

Franklin High School's Louis Brown Is Coach Of The Year: Packers

Franklin High School's Coach Louis Brown was named the Wisconsin Football Coaches Association/Green Bay Packers 2021 Coach of the Year on Tuesday, according to a news release from the Packers.

Keep On Dancing: Dancing Grannies Unite Again At Franklin Parade

Making appearances at local Christmas parades are nothing new to the Milwaukee Dancing Grannies, whose bedazzled costuming and festive dance steps have become a holiday tradition.

But when the popular dance troupe made their first appearance at a parade since losing four members in the tragedy that took place at the Waukesha Christmas parade, Saturday's performance at Franklin's parade held special meaning.

Luxury Picnics: Meet The Woman Behind This New Franklin Business

This Franklin entrepreneur is bringing a new trend to the area with her latest business plan: luxury picnics.

It's exactly as it sounds — picnics, but luxurious. Charcuterie boards, chocolate-covered strawberries, yard games and more, all enjoyed in the beauty of nature, except someone else does all the planning, lugging and dirty work.

Saputo Cheese Facility Could Bring 600 Jobs To Franklin: Reports

A Saputo cheese facility has been planned for Franklin, and with it, 600 jobs could come to the area.

New Dog Haus Locations Destined For Ballpark Commons And Beyond

The recently announced Luxe Golf Bays project underway at Ballpark Commons in Franklin will include a new hot dog franchise restaurant previously unseen in Wisconsin, the owner of the development announced in a news release Tuesday.

Construction Starts On Luxe Golf Bays At Ballpark Commons

Construction has begun on a new entertainment center and massive golfing range called Luxe Golf Bays at Franklin's Ballpark Commons, according to a news release from ROC Ventures.

The new space, set to open in May 2022, will have over 50 open-air driving range spots overlooking 250 yards of black turf. Two restaurants, one local and one national brand, plus a beer garden are set to be included in the project spearheaded by ROC Ventures.

The 5 Candidates For Franklin's Vacant Alderperson Seat

Five people submitted letters of interest to the 1st District Alderperson Seat in Franklin. On Wednesday, those people will have a chance to give a presentation to the Common Council.

Common Council Selects Edward Holpfer For 1st District Seat

With a tie-breaking vote from Mayor Steve Olson, the Franklin Common Council voted Wednesday to appoint Edward Holpfer as the 1st District Alderman.

Five others spoke to the council seeking the appointment. The Council then took a vote. After a tie vote, Edward Holpfer emerged as the winner. The seat became vacant when former Alderman Mike Dandrea resigned in July.

Strauss Slaughterhouse Permit Extended By Franklin Common Council

The permit's extension comes as legal action from city residents has stalled the slaughterhouse development. Opponents of the slaughterhouse have said the facility would impact property values, community character and health. One formal challenge filed in December of 2020 called into question the validity of the special use permit.

City Seeks To Bring Traveling Vietnam War Memorial To Franklin

The contract would lay plans for a visit from "The Wall That Heals," a 375-foot long touring replica of the Washington, D.C Vietnam Veterans Memorial. The replica travels the U.S. with an education center in tow and has so far visited over 700 communities, according to the memorial replica's website.

Franklin Woman Killed Friend With Eye Drops: Criminal Complaint

A Franklin woman was charged in Waukesha County with first-degree intentional homicide for poisoning someone to death with eye drops, a criminal complaint states.

Common Council To Hear 'Community Gateway Commons' Concept Review

The apartments and community commons would be constructed on a parcel that was formerly being eyed by Meijer's. The store plans fell through, though, and since July a plan for the new development has been in the works.

According to documents submitted to the city for the concept review, the developer wants to cut the land into two plots. One would be for two 150-unit apartment buildings while the other plot would be used for various community amenities such as a splash pad, dog park, area for seasonal markets, amphitheater, community center and firepits.

NFL Player Plans Visit To Franklin High School And New Restaurant

Billy Sims, co-founder of Billy Sims Barbecue and former NFL player, plans on visiting Franklin's new franchise location for its grand opening Sept. 10-11, according to a news release from the business.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the BBQ spot, with appearances from Franklin Mayor Steve Olson and Billy Sims, is planned for Sept. 10. Immediately after the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Sims will be available for autographs. The new barbecue franchise is located at 7358 Rawson Avenue in Franklin.

The Conservancy Plans New Trails And Pier: Sponsors Wanted

New trails are coming soon to The Conservancy for Healing and Heritage in Franklin. Alongside the trails, The Conservancy hopes to build a new educational pier into Kopmeier Lake, but more funding is needed.

Executive Director Susan Rabe told Patch about the new projects in the works, and how the community can help create the educational pier.