Van Buren commissioners voted to restart the bidding process for the Masonic Building off Spring Street.
Mayor Greg Wilson said the county does not have a need for the property.
“Instead of paying utilities and insurance on the building and it’s just sitting there empty and we would be better served and the county would be better served to put it on the market to sell,” Wilson said. “That way we can put it back on the tax rolls as well, so we could help expand our tax base so to speak.”
The American Legion has offered $10,000 for the building. The county did not receive any other offers during the previous two week bidding process.
Wilson said after a brokerage firm is accepted and represents the county, any organization interested in purchasing the property will have to contact the firm.
The bidding process for a BDS property on Pine Grove Road is on hold.
“We’re kinda more into an exploratory phase right now for that property and along with a possible business that could come in there,” Wilson said.
If the business opportunity falls through for the BDS property, it will go up for sale.
In other business during the Tuesday meeting Van Buren will receive over $86,000 in CARES Act money.