County Board approves $31K sale of Confederate Lane despite low appraisal concerns

Transylvania County Schools' Board Meeting on April 21, 2025, resulted in a significant decision regarding the sale of the Confederate Lane property, which has been a topic of discussion for some time. The board approved a resolution to sell the property for $31,000, with the buyer responsible for cleanup and any necessary renovations. This decision comes after the property was put out for bid, and the board noted that this was the only offer received.

During the meeting, board members expressed concerns about the property's valuation and the adequacy of its marketing. Some members questioned whether the property had been properly advertised, particularly on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which could have attracted more competitive offers. The discussion highlighted the potential for the property to be worth significantly more, with estimates suggesting it could sell for upwards of $80,000 after cleanup.

The board also discussed the financial implications of the sale, noting that the estimated cleanup costs could reach $20,000, which would reduce the net gain from the sale. Members debated the merits of accepting the current offer versus delaying the sale to reassess the property's value and marketing strategy. Ultimately, the board voted to approve the sale, with a narrow margin of three votes in favor and two against.

In addition to the property sale, the board approved a consent agenda that included minutes from the previous meeting, personnel reports, and budget amendments. The meeting underscored the board's commitment to making informed decisions that balance financial responsibility with community interests. Moving forward, the board will continue to evaluate the implications of the property sale and its impact on the district's resources.