Josephine County commissioners approve plan to repackage two county properties, vote 3-0

Josephine County commissioners voted 3-0 to direct staff to prepare a sale package for two county-owned properties, including 210 Tacoma and the Dimmit Campus, and to market terms that could include a price reduction, a short-term leaseback and owner-financing.

Commissioner Barnett proposed an aggressive pricing change and an alternative terms package, saying the county should make the property “more attractive for a developer.” Commissioner Barnett then moved to proceed with the package described at the meeting: “So reduction in price, 10% possible, leaseback and a possible owner carry.” A second was recorded and the motion carried with Commissioner Smith, Commissioner Barnett and Commissioner Black voting yes.

Commissioners said they want the county to stop paying carrying costs on vacant or underperforming properties. At the meeting commissioners discussed starting with a lower asking price to attract developers; Barnett said a larger price cut could be necessary for a faster sale while another commissioner expressed a preference to start at a lower price and allow some negotiation. The board recorded no precise final listing price at the meeting.

The board recorded no formal details on marketing timelines, minimum acceptable bids, or which department will lead the sale; commissioners directed staff to develop the sale package and bring back terms. The board also said the county intends to package the Dimmit Campus for sale and to work with staff on pricing and marketing.

Votes at the meeting: Commissioner Smith — yes; Commissioner Barnett — yes; Commissioner Black — yes. The motion was recorded as passed, 3-0.

Next steps announced at the meeting included staff preparing a formal sale package with price and terms for future action by the board. Specific timelines, listing prices and the identity of a listing agent were not specified at the meeting.