KINGWOOD — Not so long ago, Preston County officials sold off unused and no longer wanted police cruisers, desks and other goods at auction on the courthouse lawn. A dozen people might come to bid.
Now, because of a change in state law, they and other West Virginia government entities can sell online. Many agencies from other states do likewise.
Want a used fire truck? A classic car seized by police? How about some jewelry, fine art, skate board racks or 42 used first aid boxes?
Welcome to govdeals.com, the sales place of the 21st century. WVU, West Virginia State Police and others use the site. Last year, the Preston County Commission joined, selling one vehicle. Currently Preston has five used police cruisers and a 1993 van for sale on the site.
“It just widens your audience a lot,” Preston County Administrator Kathy Mace said. “And it gave us an easier, more effective way to advertise our vehicles.”
For Prestonians without internet access, the commission offers the opportunity to use a computer in its office to place a bid.
