The Mitchell County Board of Education took the first step in the process of disposing of the now vacant Buladean and Tipton Hill school buildings. By a 4-1 vote on Monday night the School Board resolution declared that the two facilities are surplus property, and by law, offered the county commissioners the first opportunity to obtain them. School Superintendent Dr. Rick Spurling told the board that approving the resolution would help alleviate concerns from residents and answer their questions about the future of both facilities. If the commissioners accept the offer and the two boards reach an agreement on the price, the buildings in Tipton Hill and Buladean will then belong to the county. Some board members want the board to take its time and make sure that the facilities go to the best group who will keep them as a part of the community while others see value in selling the properties to outside groups. The school board will now send a letter and the resolution to County Manager Charles Vines, asking the commissioners to take action at an upcoming meeting in September or October.