The old Erica CFA shed site will be put up for sale in a move expected to generate more than $150,000.
Almost 14 years after the CFA brigade relocated to a new station in Parkers Corner, Baw Baw Shire councillors unanimously opted to sell the site at the gateway to Erica.
Cr Adam Sheehan described the decision to sell 14 School Rd at private auction as a "fantastic opportunity" for private investment in the regional town.
In addition, Cr Sheehan said the sale would reduce recurring maintenance costs for ratepayers.
"By unlocking disused land, the message from council is clear - we're open for business," he declared.
An officer report said no community objections had been made to selling the 754 square metre site. Deemed surplus to council needs, the report stated "internal referrals have noted that there is no specific use for the site".
Adjoining the Erica Hall, officers have undertaken a title re-establishment survey at a cost of $3000 to determine boundaries. As part of further works required to realign boundaries, a new septic tank and a fire-rated wall will be required.
Having attracted an external grant, council will need to co-contribute $4000 for the septic tank.
"The sale of this site, based on current figures will achieve in excess of $150,000," the report stated. "The funds from this sale can be allocated to the property reserve account."
Cr Sheehan said it was great to see movement on council's disused assets list.
"The Erica CFA shed is freehold land within the township zone," he said. "This site has not been utilised for the past several years since the CFA relocated to a new site."
Cr Brendan Kingwill said he had spoken quite a few people in Erica.
"Obviously there's quite a few different opinions," Cr Kingwill. "But, in general, (they're) excited about something to happen to it."