What this policy covers
This policy explains how the City sells, transfers, or disposes of City-owned assets that are worth more than $50,000.00. It applies to vehicles, heavy equipment, buildings, land, and surplus machinery. The goal is to make sure every sale is fair, transparent, and gets the best value for taxpayers.
When it applies
- Any City asset valued at $50,000.00 or more requires Council approval.
- Assets valued under $50,000.00 can be approved by the City Manager.
- Transfers between City departments or to arm's-length boards (like the Wrenford Public Library Board) follow different steps and are not covered here.
How the sale process works
- Assessment: The department that uses the asset works with staff to determine its current market value. We usually hire an independent appraiser for high-value items.
- Public notice: The City posts a notice for at least 14 days on the Public Notices page and in a local newspaper. This gives the public a chance to respond.
- Bidding: Interested buyers can submit sealed bids or register for a public auction. The City does not have to accept the highest bid if it is not in the City's best interest.
- Council approval: Staff review the bids and recommend the best offer to Council. Council votes on the sale during a regular meeting. You can View council meeting schedules to see when these votes happen.
- Transfer: Once approved, the City Clerk records the resolution. The buyer pays the City, and ownership is transferred.
Exceptions and special cases
Some items do not go through the public bidding process. For example, the City may donate surplus equipment to registered charities or non-profit groups through a separate review. If an asset is damaged beyond repair, it may be sold for scrap or recycled. All exceptions are documented and reported to Council each year.
Safe and environmental disposal
If an asset cannot be sold, such as vehicles with hazardous materials or outdated electronics, the City arranges for certified recycling or safe disposal. This keeps our community clean and protects the environment. We follow all provincial regulations for handling waste and hazardous materials.
Transparency and revenue
All approved sales are recorded in the City's financial reports. You can View the current annual budget to see how asset sales contribute to the City's revenue. This policy is part of our broader commitment to open government and responsible stewardship of public resources.
Questions and contact
If you have questions about this policy or want to request a disposal form, contact the Corporate Services team. You can visit us at Wrenford City Hall, 100 Mercer Street, or call 519-555-0100. Email us at [email protected].