The city of Macon will sell off vehicles by public auction on May 10, along with an array of other surplus items.

Local auctioneer L.W. Benton Company Inc. will preside over the bidding.

Bo Benton, president of the company, said in a statement that his employees have run government auctions across the state. But this will be the company’s first time helping sell property from the city of Macon.

“Surplus auctions are a way for agencies to take equipment that is no longer needed or being used and turn it into funds for other needs or purposes,” he said. “Oftentimes, governments aren’t even aware just how many surplus items they have. It can add up pretty quick, and that can be significant.”

The auction is scheduled to start at 10 a.m. at the city’s Vehicle Maintenance Department, 1122 Seventh St. Preview and inspection periods will be held beforehand, from 1-5 p.m. May 8, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 9 and starting at 8 a.m. on the day of the sale.

Pre-auction, online bidding also is available at the Benton Company’s Web site, www.bidderone.com. Internet bidding closes at 10 p.m. the night before the auction.

Posted: 04|30|08 at 11:39 am. Filed under: US News.