Lenox council sets hearing, $2,500 minimum bid for sale of 205 South Walnut

The Lenox City Council on Oct. 28 approved Resolution 24-44 to set a public hearing on the sale of city-owned property at 205 South Walnut and set a minimum bid of $2,500. Councilor Hodges made the motion and Councilor Tull seconded; the motion carried with all ayes among the three members present.

City Administrator Allison Kitzman told the council that "the process of determining a minimum bid and holding another public hearing will need to take place, since there were no bids previously." Hodges voiced concern that "not selling the property, then the city will just keep incurring costs for upkeep on the lot," which the council cited as part of the rationale for proceeding with a new sale offering.

Under the resolution the council scheduled the public hearing for Nov. 25, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. Sealed bids will be due by 4:00 p.m. on the day of the hearing. The council did not adopt a final sale; the hearing will be the opportunity for public input and to receive sealed proposals, after which the council may set final sale terms or decline to sell.

The action followed routine meeting business earlier in the session and does not by itself transfer title; it formally opens the process for solicitations under the minimum bid specified and the public-notice requirements the city follows.