The Madison Local School District Board of Education has approved a resolution to sell the former Mifflin Elementary property through an online public auction. The approximately 10.28-acre site, consisting of six parcels along Reed Road and State Route 430 in Richland County, will be auctioned by RES Auction Services LLC from Oct. 24 through Nov. 3.
Built in 1949 with later additions, the school was the district's oldest operating building in the previous school year, according to a recent audit. Budget cuts forced its closure, and a farewell open house was held in April.
Treasurer Bradd Stevens said staff have removed needed items, leaving desks, whiteboards and other unneeded contents to be auctioned simultaneously. The school board is expected to consider bids at a Nov. 4 meeting but may act later and can reject any or all bids.
The highest bidder must make a non-refundable deposit of 10 percent of the bid, applied to the purchase price if the sale closes. The bid must remain irrevocable for 60 days after the auction or until board action, whichever comes first. Closing must occur within 60 days of acceptance unless extended by mutual agreement. The buyer pays Richland County closing costs, including deed recording fees, half the escrow fees, title insurance and other expenditures.
The district provides no warranties regarding the property's physical, environmental or utility condition, zoning, development potential, demolition or remediation costs. Asbestos-containing materials are present in certain floor tile and boiler insulation, per the board, which has not conducted a comprehensive environmental investigation. The district will not pay for post-closing remediation, abatement, demolition or repairs. Inspections can be scheduled with John Neron at 419-612-9945 before the auction.