Hawaii man offers free land in Oregon for construction of brewpub

February 26: The president of a car dealership in Hawaii is offering a plot of land in Oregon for free to anyone who promises to build a brewpub and restaurant on the property.

Mark Benson, president of Honolulu Ford, purchased the eight-acre plot of land in 2004, intending to build a new dealership on it. But the dealership deal fell through.

The plot of land, which is valued at $2 million and sees as many as 50,000 cars pass by in a day, now has a sign reading “FREE LAND for BREWPUB.”

“I’m looking for the ideal convergence of economic development, tourism and jobs,” Benson said. “Not to mention that craft beers are on rise and the location upon which my property sits is perfectly suited to fill a need the area has for quality beer and good food.”

City manager Seth Atkinson told the Oregonian that zoning could make the property eligible for additional tax breaks and stated a need for a brewpub or restaurant in the area.

“From everything we’re seeing, demand is very high for this type of project,” he said.

In addition to offering the land for free, Benson said he would agree to be a partner in the business to any serious buyers.

“This will be great for the local community and so far we’ve received a lot of response,” he said. “We hope to find the right partner with vision and a solid business plan and will look at this as great opportunity as well.” UPI