Laurel, Neb - The Laurel City Council has taken significant steps toward the sale of the Hillcrest Care Center and Assisted Living facility by passing two key resolutions during Tuesday's meeting.

The first resolution green lights the sale of the center's personal property, excluding essential fixtures and files, through a public auction. City administrators are now empowered to engage an auction company to manage the sale. In compliance with city statutes, the auction date will be publicized in three prominent locations within Laurel, ensuring community awareness and participation.

The second resolution focuses on the sale of the Hillcrest Care Center building itself, setting a listing price of $600,000. This resolution authorizes the city administrator to partner with licensed real estate brokers under a non-exclusive agreement.

Laurel Mayor Kieth Knudsen clarified that the council retains ultimate decision-making power over any offers received. "Any offers that come in can be either approved or denied by the council," Knudsen stated. He also noted that state statutes mandate a three-week public notice period in the local paper for any approved purchase agreement, followed by a 30-day waiting period during which community members can petition against the sale.

The timeline for the auction is contingent on the availability of an auctioneer. As for the building, Knudsen acknowledged a more complex sales process. "But as soon as we can get information out to realtors, it would start the time when we could start accepting offers."