New Hanover County to open surplus property for nonprofit preview, then public auction

New Hanover County commissioners highlighted an agenda item to approve disposal of surplus county property under North Carolina General Statute Chapter 168, Article 12 and staff outlined a two-step process for distribution.

A commissioner asked the panel to “put a spotlight” on the item, saying the county periodically offers surplus equipment — from office furniture and shelving to vehicles and commercial mowers — first to local nonprofits and then to the public. Sarah from facilities management told commissioners that, if the board approved the item, nonprofits could view and make offers starting the following morning; any remaining items would be advertised and sold on an online auction site similar to eBay (govdeals).

Sarah provided contact information for organizations seeking items: the county’s facilities management office, phone 798-4413, and an email posted as bkohlenberg@nhcgov.com. She said nonprofit offers during the initial preview are considered on a first-come, first-served basis, and county staff will review offers for reasonableness before transfer. Vehicles retired from the sheriff’s fleet were listed among items expected to be available.

Commissioners framed the program as a way to support local organizations and reduce waste. No formal vote on the surplus-resolution text was recorded in public discussion beyond the item being pulled for comment; staff said availability would begin the next morning “given your approval today.”

Next steps: nonprofits may inspect items during the preview period and staff will post remaining items to govdeals for public auction.