Crown Point to publish notice to sell 400 East North Street with $225,000 asking price

Crown Point city staff told the Board of Public Works and Safety the city has title to 400 East North Street and recommended publishing a disposal notice with an asking price of $225,000 based on the average of two appraisals. The board approved publishing the notice and placing a sign on the property to solicit bids.

Staff explained the required publication schedule under the statute: notices to be published on July 6 and July 13 with a 17-day period after the second publication for eligible bids; if no qualifying bids at or above $225,000 are received, staff said the city may, after a 30-day period, negotiate a sale for a lower amount in accordance with statutory procedures.

Council/staff said the $225,000 amount covers the city's costs into demolition and other expenses and represents the average of two appraisals. The board approved the motion to issue the notice by voice vote; staff will accept sealed bids at the clerk's office during the posted period and return with any qualifying bids for the board's consideration.

The board did not set a purchaser; the process as described requires public notice and receipt of qualifying bids before the city may accept an offer.