Hi Todd,
Per your request, I have closed the case, but I wanted to provide the answer here as well, in case anyone else is interested, or if for any reason you'd like to discuss it further.
Release Automation does not automatically archive any files such as the .properties file or other configuration files because RA only automatically stores artifacts. If there's a desire to archive these files, it can be done via artifact management -- in other words, designate the .properties file as an artifact and setup RA to manipulate it accordingly.
If you could mark this thread as Answered if you're satisfied with the explanation, I'd appreciate it, but I also want to invite any other questions, concerns, or comments if you have any you'd like to share first. Thank you!