SPRINGFIELD, Fla. (WMBB) – Listen up and get your checkbooks ready.
Over Memorial Day weekend, the Florida Auction Network held a government surplus auction that was open to the public.
If your local government has equipment or vehicles that are no longer needed, there are several ways to dispose of them.
One example is putting something up for auction.
Dozens of people gathered at the Florida Auction Network in Springfield on Saturday morning to see what was up for grabs.
“There were some really good bargains. You guys missed out on a bargain. I hope Sheriff Ford doesn't sue me for selling a camper today,” said John Sewell, owner and auctioneer for Florida Auction Network LLC.
Most of the vehicles and equipment were provided by the Panama City Police Department and Public Works Department, Panama City Beach Police Department and the Bay County Sheriff's Office.
These items include Crown Victorias, Harley Davidson motorcycles and work trucks.
“We had a variety of tools and attachments and the auction was very successful. We had a pretty good turnout, good timing for a holiday weekend,” Sewell said.
Sewell said many of the people who come to the auction are repeat buyers.
For others, it was their first time experiencing the full auction experience.
“It's a lot of fun. It's really exciting to meet him and do all the tinkering and see how much money you can actually save. Buying equipment, cars and stuff like that. I think it's a really good opportunity for people to come and invest and make a little extra money so please come and check it out,” attendee Katie Hobbs said.
Hobbs said if he had some extra money, he would buy a fifth wheel and an ATV.
Of the 149 pieces offered at auction, 102 were sold.
“This is great because 100 percent of the funds go directly back into providing more and better services to our citizens,” Sewell said.
Sewell said he couldn't have asked for a better auction this Memorial Day weekend.
“God blessed us with great weather. It's Memorial Day weekend and I think we have a lot to be thankful for living in a military community. Our freedoms certainly aren't free but we had a lot of people out today. Everyone was positive. Everyone left with a good deal. Nobody overpaid today,” Sewell said.
The next auction will be held on Saturday, June 15th.
For more information about the Florida Auction Network, click here.
