New Hanover County approves surplus-property resolution; nonprofits get first access to library furniture and county equipment

The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners approved a resolution to dispose of surplus county property, with nonprofit organizations given a first opportunity to inspect and acquire items before any remaining goods are sold at public auction.

The resolution, described by a commissioner during the meeting as an "annual" surplus process, covers equipment and furnishings from multiple county departments, including library furniture being cleared as the county transitions from its main library to a new facility. County staff said available items include office equipment, shelving, oak library tables and chairs, fitness equipment, cargo trailers, John Deere mowers, bicycles and retired vehicles such as Crown Victorias, Dodge Chargers and vans that were replaced during the sheriff's vehicle replacement program.

County facilities staff said, if the board approved the item, nonprofits would be allowed to view and make offers beginning the day after the meeting. Staff described the window for nonprofits as a first-come, first-served opportunity; if the county accepts an offer deemed reasonable, the items would be sold to the nonprofit. Items remaining after the nonprofit period would be advertised and sold on GovDeals, an online auction platform staff said operates similarly to eBay.

The board considered the surplus-property resolution as part of the consent agenda. Commissioner Zappel moved the consent agenda and the board approved it by voice vote.

Facilities staff gave a contact path for nonprofit inquiries: the county's facilities management office (ask for Brian) and an email address posted in the county advertisement: bkohlenberg@nhcgov.com. Staff also said the county would post notices on social media and the county website and provided a phone number for inquiries (798-4413).