Taylor University auctioned off four vans, two trucks and two cars in a silent auction that ended April 11.
Kerry Shanebrook, the grounds superintendent at Taylor University, said the money from the sales goes into Taylor’s vehicle replacement fund.
People placed bids in person at the Boyd Building and Grounds complex. The cars had a minimum bid of $2,500, which Shanebrook said was based off of their resale price. The dealer Taylor bought the cars from would have given them a trade in value, cleaned them up, and resold them for a higher price, Shanebrook said.
They thought it was fair for Taylor to get at least the trade in value. Vans and trucks did not have a minimum bid.
Taylor University hosts a silent auction whenever they purchase new vehicles for their motor pool, a resource that allows Taylor faculty, students and staff to borrow a car for Taylor-related or sponsored activities.
The vehicles displaced by the new additions to the motor pool get sent to maintenance based on need. Then, the vehicle’s maintenance doesn't need to be auctioned off.
Shanebrook said he was surprised at how many students bid on cars this year.
“I was just surprised how many students bid this year,” he said. “… (a) lot of times we don't get a lot of students. This year we had a lot of students especially for that little blue pick-up. It was crazy. Number 83 is — people went nuts on that.”
The school maintains the vehicles well, Shanebrook said, so they were good options for students.
Shanebrook said he will contact the winners individually to let them know they won instead of making a public announcement. Those curious about the winning bid can ask him, he said.
