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Murray County authorizes online auction of former highway facility in Slayton
Summary
The Murray County Board voted 5-0 to declare the former highway facility at 3051 20th Street in Slayton surplus and authorize an online auction through GovDeals, following a Building Committee recommendation and a presentation by GovDeals representatives about listing details, bid deposits and fees.
The Murray County Board of Commissioners on March 24 authorized the sale of the county’s former Highway Facility at 3051 20th Street in Slayton via an online auction platform, GovDeals.com. The motion, made by Commissioner Roger Zins and seconded by Board Chair Mark Carlson, passed on a 5-0 roll call vote.
Board members considered a recommendation from the Building Committee to declare the two parcels (Parcel ID 29.150.0010, 5.41 acres; Parcel ID 29.150.0020, 0.59 acres) surplus and market them together rather than as separate lots. County reviewer Carl Nyquist noted the parcels are currently used for equipment storage, salt operations and fuel supply and said vacating the property could extend into the fall depending on Phase II construction timelines.
Representatives from GovDeals, Colin Bower and Mark Moritz, described the online-auction process and marketing plan, including advertising via Loop.net and MLS, a typical 45-day listing period, and a recommended bid-deposit requirement to be refunded to unsuccessful bidders. GovDeals stated that buyers typically pay a 5% platform fee and closing costs, which would be disclosed in the listing. The county may set a minimum starting price; GovDeals advised that a lower starting price often attracts more bids, with the Board reserving the right to reject bids it deems too low.
The Board discussed an illustrative timetable: if bidding closed in early June, the nearest Board meeting to consider bids would be June 2; a possible closing date mentioned was July 15. County staff estimated a starting price in the neighborhood of $250,000, but the Board did not set a firm floor at the meeting.
Because the county currently stores fuel on-site, Nyquist also advised the Board to consider inventory and operational needs when setting listing and possession dates. The Board decided no closed session was needed to establish a reserve price after the public discussion. The authorization directs staff to proceed with preparation of listing materials and to work with GovDeals on timing and listing details.
The Board adjourned at approximately 9:30 AM.
