|
City rejects piano bid, wants at least $10K
By Anthony McConnell
This document was published online on Monday, June 02, 2008
A $4,000 bid for a Steinway baby grand piano was rejected recently by the city council.
The piano was left to the city by former mayor and oil magnate Paul Stock and was valued at $12,000-$38,000 by pianist Jim Hager of Cody.
It had been on display at the Stock House, but when the Buffalo Bill Historical Center sold the property the council decided to auction the piano and several other items from the estate.
Before the May 1 auction Hager, who was unable to attend the auction, offered to purchase the piano for $10,000. At the auction Cindi and Charles Cloud bid $4,000.
Parks, Recreation and Facilities Director Rob Schoeber recommended the council reject Cloud's bid and advertise the piano for sale and accept sealed bids.
“This would give everyone an even playing ground and ensure the best price,” Schoeber said.
Charles Cloud objected saying, “It was an even playing field,” and anyone who wanted to purchase the piano should have attended the auction.
No reserve (minimum) price was placed on the piano, but it was the intention of the city to get at least $10,000, councilman Steve Miller said.
He added that it was announced at the auction that all bids were subject to city council approval and it was a miscommunication with the auctioneer that a reserve was not placed on the piano.
“We owe the public due diligence to get the best price we can,” councilman Cliff Main said.
In other matters the council approved:
€First reading of the city's budget for fiscal year 2008-09. The budget totals $32.1 million and includes $6.3 million in capital projects, such as upgraded storm sewer at 17th and Beck, sanitary sewer along River View Drive and several street projects.
€Issuing a restaurant liquor license to Tacos El Taconazo on Big Horn Avenue.
€A consensus list of State Loan and Investment Board projects for Cody, Powell and Park County. Funds cannot be allocated until projects are approved by all three entities.
€A contract between the city and TCT West which will allow the company use of city right-of-ways for its telecommunications infrastructure.
€Closing Beck Avenue in front of the high school football field for the Cody Optimist Club's annual Sock Hop on June 19.
|
Popular Searches