The Town of Smithfield has sold a vacant lot they had owned since a 2009 condemnation proceeding. The 0.17 acre lot is at 916 Third Avenue.
The house originally on the lot was removed and since then town staff have had to mow and maintain the lot.
The town recently advertised the lot for sale and received a bid of $6,500. The tax value is $10,250.
At the December council meeting, Town Manager Michael Scott recommended the council accept the bid.
Mayor Pro Tem Travis Scott made a motion to reject the bid and readvertise the lot in hopes of getting a price closer to the tax value. The town manager and town attorney responded by saying lots in that area were not selling at tax value. No one seconded the mayor pro tem’s motion. Scott then rescinded his motion and the board voted unanimously to sell the lot for $6,500.
After the sale is completed, the town can begin collecting annual property taxes on the parcel.
