Commissioners discuss potential sale of Atchison County Lake; broker outlines marketing and process

The Atchison County Board of Commissioners discussed whether to sell the county lake property and invited a listing broker to describe marketing options, probable timeline and pricing considerations.

Commissioners reviewed a draft one‑page public notice that identifies the county’s review of options for the Atchison County Lake property. Board members said that the one‑pager should include county expenditures to date, projected ad valorem tax receipts if the property were placed on the tax roll, and a clear statement of how sale proceeds would be used. Commissioners repeatedly stressed that the public should understand whether proceeds would be dedicated to capital projects, such as a road and bridge facility, or to general county needs.

Drew Nargos Keith, representing Midwest Land Group, told the board that the property is unique and that comparable sales are limited; he said his office had provided initial comparative sales and could supply additional comps. He estimated the property could attract offers significantly above farm‑land per‑acre rates and cited prior broker estimates the board had received. Nargos Keith recommended preparing due diligence materials—road plats, flood‑plain and septic information, and a clear list of county expectations—and suggested the county resolve any road or utility issues before listing. He recommended a commission structure tied to sale outcomes and said agents who achieve higher sale prices typically charge a higher, performance‑based commission.

Commissioners said their principal goals are (1) to place the property on the tax roll if possible, (2) to secure a buyer who will pay taxes rather than an exempt nonprofit, and (3) to use sale proceeds for long‑term capital needs without reducing current taxpayers’ burden. Commissioners noted local nostalgia around the lake and said public outreach—an explanation of costs, the county’s plan for proceeds and a timeline—will be necessary before any decision to list. The board signaled it wants to gather further appraisal data, complete a short public information sheet, and meet with interested stakeholders, then decide whether to pursue listing or other disposition options.

Ending: The county asked the broker to provide a detailed checklist of documents and next steps and asked county staff to refine the one‑pager and hold public outreach before any final action.