Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Property Disposal topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Des Moines County to issue RFP to local realtors for sale of Hope Haven–related parcels; proceeds to return to original grantee
Summary
After public comment from Hope Haven leadership, the board directed staff to prepare a request for proposals to local realtors seeking market analyses, marketing plans and commission proposals to sell several county-owned parcels whose proceeds would be returned to the original grantee, Hope Haven.
Following public comment from Stephanie Cox, president of the Hope Haven Foundation, the Des Moines County Board of Supervisors directed staff on March 3 to prepare a request for proposals (RFP) seeking local real-estate firms to market and sell several county-owned parcels previously linked to Hope Haven.
County staff and supervisors discussed legal constraints on disposing of county-owned real property and stressed the need to establish fair market value for each parcel. Board members noted that while the county cannot simply convey property to a private nonprofit, it can sell property and direct the proceeds for the original charitable purpose. The board asked staff to include an approach to demonstrate fair market value in the solicitation packet so the sale could withstand public or legal scrutiny.
Under the direction given at the meeting, the RFP will be sent to local realtors (the county will document distribution to at least three providers) and will ask respondents to provide: an estimated market value (market analysis/comps) for each parcel; marketing and outreach plans; proposed commission rates; evidence of commercial and residential sales experience in the area; and a proposed exclusive-listing term (six months was discussed as typical). Staff recommended allowing one month for proposals to be returned.
Board members emphasized that an appraisal is not required for the initial RFP response if the realtor provides a market-analysis opinion with supporting comparables, but asked that proposals include supporting comps and a clear methodology so the county can demonstrate that any accepted offer is within the range of fair market value. The board said it will consider the RFP responses at a future meeting and return to formally authorize any sale or contract.
Stephanie Cox—representing Hope Haven—made a brief statement asking the board to consider procedures that would allow the charitable intent of original donors to be honored by returning proceeds to Hope Haven; staff confirmed that proceeds can be distributed to the original grantee if sale proceeds are generated from property purchased with charitable donations.
