GWINNETT TO TRY ONLINE AUCTIONS

Gwinnett County issued the following press release:

Gwinnett County, spurred by the success of other local governments, will try auctioning some of its surplus equipment on the Internet. Commission Chairman Charles Bannister said, "If this can increase the return on our investment when we dispose of old vehicles and other equipment, I'm all for it."

The County will post cars, light pick up trucks, landscaping mowers and utility carts on e-Bay soon. A sampling of the equipment that will be available for auction includes:

* 2004 Chevrolet Colorado,

* 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix,

* 1997 Chevrolet C1500 1/2-ton full size pick up - 4WD, SWB with extended cab,

* 1997 Ford Taurus,

* 1996 John Deere F925 72" deck riding mower, and

* 1995 specialty cart (electric golf cart)

Many governments and private businesses use auctions to recover whatever residual value may be left in outdated or surplus vehicles, office machines, furnishings, and other equipment. Online auctions began as a way for individuals to find buyers for specific items, but have increasingly attracted businesses because of the wide audience they reach. Most government entities have continued to use traditional auctions.

In fact, Gwinnett County will also hold a traditional auction of vehicles and miscellaneous equipment with Wayne Evans Auction Company on Saturday, March 4. Bidding begins at 10 a.m.

The auction will take place at the County Fleet Management facility at 620 Swanson Drive in Lawrenceville. Prospective bidders can preview the items there on Friday, March 3, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and on auction day from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Payment for purchases must be cash, cashier's check or a check accompanied by a bank guarantee. County employees will not receive preferential treatment. Questions about the items or the auction itself should be directed to Wayne Evans Auction Company, Inc. at 1-800-282-8460 or www.weaci.com.