Save for some non-profit agencies that are receiving free rent, the building has been largely vacant since the county consolidated its offices last year at Courthouse Square. Two non-profit agencies recently moved in for the free rent while decisions are being carried out. The building, located across High Street from the Marion County Courthouse, once housed the offices of the assessor, tax collector, treasurer, district attorney and other county staff.

The commissioners are following the lead of county staff, which recommends selling the building outright because it would be too expensive to retain it for future expansion. The board also was advised by a local realtor that the vacancy rate for such a building could be as much as 25% if added to the current market supply. He recommends using proceeds from a sale to develop Courthouse Square's north block instead.

If the building doesn't sell at the auction the county will list the property with a Realtor. The minimum bid price is $1.275 million. Information packets will be available March 2. Open houses will be held March 16, 19 and 20. The bidding will take place in the Senator Hearing Room in Courthouse Square, located at 555 Court St.