Surplus property auctions provide the general public an opportunity to purchase quality goods at reduced prices and enable the state to recoup a portion of its initial investment. Auctions have generated nearly $1.9 million to date during fiscal year 2006.

Public auctions are the last step in the state's surplus program. State agencies declare property as surplus because it is damaged or at the end of its life cycle for government use. The property is then made available to other state agencies, state higher education facilities, tax-supported agencies, municipal corporations and other political subdivisions of the state, including public schools. Remaining property is sold at the public auctions. Merchandise also is collected by the Transportation Security Administration from airline passengers.

For more information on payment requirements, directions and other information about surplus property auctions, visit the State and Federal Surplus Web site at www.ohio.gov/surplus or call (614) 466-5052.