County puts Malden lots on bid block

Three blocks in Malden will go up for bid later this month in the county treasurer’s office. The Board of County Commissioners Monday voted unanimously to establish a minimum bid of $5,300 for the properties.

The land in question was up for foreclosure in December, but it did not sell.

“It reverts to Whitman County if not sold in the foreclosure sale,” explained Art Swannack, commissioner.

The commissioners indicated they did not want to own the land, as that would mean having to maintain it.

“The land itself is pretty sad,” said Laurie Line with the assessor’s office. “It’s pretty underdeveloped.”

There are no buildings on the land, with the exception of a shed.

In discussion Monday, the commissioners noted the current owner of the land owes $4,893.95 in overdue taxes and fines. The minimum bid of $5,300 was established to cover that cost plus the cost of advertising the bidding as well as the recording fee in the assessor’s office.

“Make sure we’re covering the expenses necessary,” said Swannack.

The bids will be received June 30 from 9 a.m. and continue until 4 p.m. They will be opened in the commissioner’s room at the courthouse. The successful bidder will be required to pay in full that day.

The commissioners also indicated at their meeting Monday that there is someone currently interested in the property.