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Meeker County hires auctioneer for two tax‑forfeited parcels with minimum bids set
Summary
The board authorized a contract with a local auctioneer to advertise and sell two tax‑forfeited parcels with minimum bids ($67,200 and $80,300) under Minnesota Statute 282.02; auctioneer described selling properties 'as is' and recommended minimal county investment for cleanup.
The Meeker County Board approved an agreement April 21 to hire a local auctioneer to sell two tax‑forfeited parcels, setting minimum bids and authorizing advertising under Minnesota Statute 282.02.
County staff introduced the parcels and sought board authority to contract with Steppy's group (local auction services). Eric A. Ros, the auctioneer, described both properties: a small, heavily dilapidated Grove City house he estimated would cost roughly $25,000 to demolish and a river‑adjacent parcel better suited to recreational or hunting use. He recommended selling both properties 'as is,' conducting minimal county cleanup for safety (boarding doors, posting no‑trespass signs) and letting buyers accept risk and title as‑is.
Ros outlined fees: a 5% commission paid by the county and a 5% buyer premium paid by the purchaser; he said advertising, closing coordination and use of a local title company are included. Staff also explained statutory constraints: the county may only retain amounts necessary to recoup taxes and costs; excess proceeds are distributed per statute.
The board moved, seconded, and approved the agreement. One commissioner recorded an opposition during the voice vote.
