Rene Bates: A Legacy Of Trust In Public Surplus Auctions

In the world of public asset disposition, few names resonate with the authority and longevity of Rene Bates. For decades, the name Rene Bates has been synonymous with integrity, efficiency, and a deep understanding of the unique needs of governmental entities in managing their surplus and salvage property. From humble beginnings to a revered position in the Texas auction landscape, the story of Rene Bates and the company he founded is one built on a foundation of unwavering dedication and expertise.

This article delves into the remarkable journey of Rene Bates, exploring his contributions to the auction industry, the enduring legacy of Rene Bates Auctioneers, Inc., and how this family-run business continues to serve numerous cities, counties, and school districts across Texas, ensuring transparent and effective disposal of public assets. We will examine their specialized services, the types of auctions they conduct, and the vital role they play in the financial stewardship of public funds, touching upon the principles of E-E-A-T (Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) and YMYL (Your Money or Your Life) that are inherently part of their operations.

Table of Contents

• Rene Bates: The Man and His Vision
• Personal Data: Rene Bates
• The Legacy Continues: A Family Affair
• Specializing in Governmental Surplus: A Pillar of Trust
  • Serving Texas Cities and Counties
• How Rene Bates Auctioneers Operates
  • Online Auctions: A Modern Approach
  • Live Auctions: The Traditional Thrill
• What You Can Find at Rene Bates Auctions
  • Vehicles and Heavy Equipment
  • Office, Computer, and Miscellaneous Surplus
• Navigating the Auction Process
• Key Locations and Contacts
• The Enduring Trust and Expertise

Rene Bates: The Man and His Vision

Rene Bates was more than just an auctioneer; he was a pioneer and a pillar in the Texas auction community. Born and raised with an entrepreneurial spirit, Rene Bates established Rene Bates Auctioneers, Inc. in 1966. His vision was clear: to provide a professional, transparent, and highly effective service for governmental entities to dispose of their surplus property. This specialization set his company apart, building a niche that required not only auctioneering prowess but also a deep understanding of public sector regulations and accountability. Over the decades, Rene Bates cultivated a reputation for honesty, fairness, and unparalleled expertise. His commitment to the industry and his clients did not go unnoticed. In recognition of his significant contributions and his long-standing dedication to the profession, Rene was formally inducted into the Texas Auctioneers Hall of Fame in 2011. This prestigious honor cemented his status as one of the most respected figures in the Texas auction world. His passing on February 27, 2020, in McKinney, Texas, marked the end of an era, but the robust foundation he laid ensured his legacy would continue to thrive.

Personal Data: Rene Bates

Attribute	Detail
Full Name	Renè Bates
Date of Passing	February 27, 2020
Location of Passing	McKinney, Texas
Role	Owner of Renè Bates Auctioneers
Notable Achievement	Inducted into the Texas Auctioneers Hall of Fame (2011)
Company Founded	1966

The Legacy Continues: A Family Affair

Following Rene Bates' passing in 2020, the reins of Rene Bates Auctioneers, Inc. were seamlessly passed to the next generation. His daughter, Sheryl, and his other daughter, Michelle, now expertly run the operations. This transition underscores the family's deep-rooted commitment to the business and to upholding the high standards set by Rene. Their continued leadership ensures that the expertise, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness that defined the company under Rene's guidance remain at the forefront. In fact, Michelle Bates and Sheryl Bates were honored to open the Texas Public Purchasing Association virtual conference on July 14, 2021, showcasing their active involvement and recognized standing within the public purchasing community. This continuity provides immense confidence to the numerous governmental entities that rely on Rene Bates Auctioneers for their surplus property disposal needs.

Specializing in Governmental Surplus: A Pillar of Trust

Since its inception in 1966, Rene Bates Auctioneers has carved out a unique and essential niche: specializing in surplus property auctions for governmental entities. This specialization is critical because the disposal of public assets is not merely a commercial transaction; it is a matter of public trust and financial accountability. Governmental bodies, from small towns to large counties, are tasked with managing taxpayer resources responsibly, and that includes liquidating assets that are no longer needed or are salvageable. Rene Bates Auctioneers provides the expertise to navigate these complex requirements, ensuring transparency, fair market value, and compliance. The company's long-standing relationships with various public entities speak volumes about their reliability and effectiveness. They act as the contractor for numerous cities and counties, providing a streamlined and efficient method for disposing of a wide array of items. Auctions are frequently the most efficient and transparent method for disposing of surplus and salvage property, and Rene Bates Auctioneers has perfected this process over decades.

Serving Texas Cities and Counties

The reach and impact of Rene Bates Auctioneers extend across a significant portion of Texas. Their services are sought after by a diverse range of governmental bodies, highlighting their adaptability and comprehensive service offering. Here are some of the key entities that contract with Rene Bates Auctioneers, Inc.: * **City of White Settlement:** Rene Bates Auctioneers is the contractor for the city for the disposal of salvage and surplus materials. * **Hays County:** Utilizes Rene Bates as online auctioneers for surplus and obsolete items, demonstrating a reliance on modern auction methods. * **Johnson County:** Currently uses an online auction service provided by Rene Bates to sell all surplus property, with auctions being the most frequent method for disposal. * **City of Grand Prairie:** Conducts live abandoned & impounded vehicle auctions, with a notable upcoming auction on July 9, 2025, beginning at 9:00 AM PDT. The city's live auctions are consistently held on the second Wednesday of every month, with the next one scheduled for November 13, 2024. * **City of Lancaster:** Contracts with Rene Bates Auctioneers, Inc. to dispose of surplus city property through public auctions. * **City of McKinney:** Has contracted with Rene Bates Auctioneers for auctioneer services to dispose of surplus city property, with public auctions scheduled as items are turned in. * **City of Bedford:** Contracts with Rene Bates Auctioneers, Inc. to provide online auctions at least twice per year at the city's request. * **Tarrant County Purchasing Department:** Periodically disposes of county surplus, retired office and computer equipment, vehicles, and heavy equipment through Rene Bates. * **City of Orange, Texas:** An auction closes on July 9, 2025, beginning at 10:00 AM CDT. * **City of La Porte:** Also utilizes Rene Bates' services, with contact information at 23rd St., La Porte TX 77571. * **Lubbock, Texas:** The Maintenance Warehouse at 701 13th St., Lubbock, TX 79401, handles items by appointment only from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. * **Rockwall, Texas:** Hamm Elementary School at 2911 Greenway Drive, Rockwall, Texas 75087, is another contact point for specific items. * **Corpus Christi, Texas:** The PCCA Maintenance Building at 4985 Rincon Rd., Corpus Christi, TX 78401, has scheduled viewing times, such as Tuesday, July 8, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. * **Frisco ISD:** While Frisco ISD is closed on Fridays, they also engage with Rene Bates for surplus disposal, with contact at 7159 Hickory St., Frisco, TX 75034. This extensive list underscores the trust and reliance placed upon Rene Bates Auctioneers by various governmental entities, solidifying their authoritative position in the public surplus auction market.

How Rene Bates Auctioneers Operates

Rene Bates Auctioneers employs a dual approach to auctions, catering to different needs and types of property: online auctions for widespread access and convenience, and live auctions for specific items or community engagement. This flexibility ensures that governmental entities can choose the most effective method for their disposal needs.

Online Auctions: A Modern Approach

The digital age has transformed the auction industry, and Rene Bates Auctioneers has fully embraced this evolution. Surplus property internet auctions are held with Rene Bates Auctioneers and are scheduled throughout the year, providing continuous opportunities for buyers. This online platform is a cornerstone of their operations, especially for entities like Hays County and Johnson County, which use Rene Bates as online auctioneers for their surplus and obsolete items. To participate in these online auctions, potential bidders must first register on the Rene Bates website. The process involves completing a registration form, accepting the terms and conditions, and then submitting it. A crucial step for serious bidders is sending a cashier's check or money order for a $100.00 deposit. Alternatively, the deposit can be sent via Zelle to their account: auction@renebates.com. This deposit ensures the seriousness of bidders and streamlines the post-auction process. The convenience of online bidding allows for a wider audience to participate, potentially leading to better returns for the selling entities. A 10% buyer's premium is typically added to the final selling price for online auctions, as seen in the June 30, 2025 auction beginning at 9:00 AM PDT and for specific items like "4 tanks."

Live Auctions: The Traditional Thrill

While online auctions offer convenience, live auctions provide a dynamic, in-person experience that some prefer, especially for certain types of property like vehicles. The City of Grand Prairie, for instance, holds live abandoned & impounded vehicle auctions. These events are a regular fixture, typically occurring on the second Wednesday of every month. The next live auction for Grand Prairie is scheduled for November 13, 2024, with another on July 9, 2025, beginning at 9:00 AM PDT. These live events allow for physical inspection of items and the excitement of competitive bidding in real-time. Citizens are encouraged to participate but are cautioned that every item is sold "as is," and may contain defects that are not immediately detectable.

What You Can Find at Rene Bates Auctions

The sheer variety of items available through Rene Bates auctions is a testament to the diverse needs of governmental entities. From heavy machinery to everyday office supplies, the catalogs are extensive. A full auction catalog can return 119 categories, indicating the vast range of items regularly put up for sale.

Vehicles and Heavy Equipment

One of the primary categories of surplus property handled by Rene Bates Auctioneers is vehicles and heavy equipment. This includes municipal fleet vehicles and equipment that have reached the end of their service life or are being replaced. Buyers can find: * **Vehicles:** A wide range of cars, trucks, and other municipal vehicles. * **Heavy Equipment:** Construction machinery, utility vehicles, and other specialized equipment. * **Impounded Vehicles:** As seen with the City of Grand Prairie's auctions. These items are often sought after by businesses, contractors, and individuals looking for reliable equipment at competitive prices.

Office, Computer, and Miscellaneous Surplus

Beyond vehicles, Rene Bates auctions are a treasure trove of other governmental surplus items. This category is particularly broad and can include anything from retired office furniture to unique collectibles. * **County Surplus:** General items no longer needed by county departments. * **Retired Office and Computer Equipment:** Desks, chairs, filing cabinets, computers, monitors, printers, and other IT equipment. * **Collectibles:** On occasion, unique items emerge, such as a sale selling 79 lots of collectibles. * **Salvage and Miscellaneous Items:** This can range from industrial salvage to smaller, everyday items. Examples from past listings include "3 bolt cutters and saw blades" and a "Trunk (30x 20x7) misc items (openers, car sound horn, 2 gun rack holders)" which was a seized item. It's important to note that the seller often has no history on seized items, and they are sold "as is." * **Specialized Equipment:** Even items like "4 tanks" have appeared in their catalogs. The dynamic nature of these listings means that interested buyers should regularly check the Rene Bates website to find out about upcoming auctions and to find and bid on their current auction.

Navigating the Auction Process

For anyone interested in participating in a Rene Bates auction, understanding the process is key to a successful experience. The website, www.renebates.com, is the central hub for all information. * **Registration:** As mentioned, online registration is mandatory for bidding. This involves accepting terms and conditions. * **Deposits:** The $100.00 deposit (via cashier's check, money order, or Zelle) is a prerequisite for bidding and ensures that only serious buyers participate. * **Buyer's Premium:** Be aware that a 10% buyer's premium will be added to the final selling price for most auctions. This is a standard fee in the auction industry. * **Item Inspection:** For many items, especially larger or more complex ones, viewing by appointment is available. For example, at the Maintenance Warehouse in Lubbock, items can be viewed by appointment only from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. This is crucial as items are used and may contain defects that are not immediately detectable. Citizens are encouraged to participate but are cautioned about the "as is" nature of the sales. * **Auction Schedules:** Online auctions are scheduled throughout the year. Live auctions, like those for the City of Grand Prairie, have fixed monthly schedules. It's advisable to check the website regularly for specific dates and times, such as the City of Grand Prairie's next live auction scheduled for November 13, 2024, or the June 30, 2025, auction.

Key Locations and Contacts

Rene Bates Auctioneers maintains a central office and various contact points across Texas to facilitate their extensive operations. * **Main Office:** Virginia Street, Suite 104, McKinney TX 75069. This is the primary contact for general inquiries and likely where administrative functions are handled. * **Frisco:** 7159 Hickory St., Frisco, TX 75034. * **La Porte:** 23rd St., La Porte TX 77571 (City of La Porte City Hall, Planning). * **Lubbock:** Maintenance warehouse, 701 13th St., Lubbock, TX 79401 (Contact for viewing by appointment). * **Rockwall:** Hamm elementary school, 2911 Greenway Drive, Rockwall, Texas 75087 (Contact for specific items). * **Corpus Christi:** PCCA maintenance building, 4985 Rincon Rd., Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (Contact for viewing, e.g., Tuesday July 8, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM). These numerous locations and contact points highlight the company's widespread presence and commitment to serving diverse communities across Texas.

The Enduring Trust and Expertise

The continued success and widespread adoption of Rene Bates Auctioneers by governmental entities underscore their adherence to the principles of E-E-A-T. Their long history, dating back to 1966, establishes deep **Expertise** in the field of public surplus disposal. The fact that numerous cities and counties, including major ones like Tarrant County and the City of Grand Prairie, consistently contract with them demonstrates their **Authoritativeness** in this specialized market. Furthermore, the transparent auction processes, clear terms and conditions, and a legacy built on integrity contribute to their significant **Trustworthiness**. For buyers, especially those dealing with significant investments like vehicles or heavy equipment, the YMYL (Your Money or Your Life) aspect is crucial. Rene Bates Auctioneers, by providing clear descriptions, inspection opportunities (albeit with "as is" caveats), and a structured bidding process, aims to minimize risks and ensure fair transactions. The governmental nature of the items also means that the source is generally reliable, and the process is designed to be accountable. The consistent use of Rene Bates by public bodies for disposing of valuable assets reinforces the idea that financial transactions conducted through their platform are handled with the utmost care and professionalism.

Rene Bates built more than just an auction company; he established an institution that became an indispensable partner for governmental entities across Texas. His legacy, now expertly managed by his daughters Sheryl and Michelle, continues to thrive, adapting to modern technologies while upholding the foundational values of integrity and service. Whether it's a municipal fleet vehicle, retired office equipment, or unique collectibles, Rene Bates Auctioneers remains the go-to specialist for public surplus disposal, ensuring transparency, efficiency, and optimal returns for the communities they serve.

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Have you ever participated in a Rene Bates auction, or perhaps your local government uses their services? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below! If you found this article informative, please consider sharing it with others who might benefit from understanding the vital role of specialized auctioneers in public asset management. For more insights into public purchasing and surplus disposition, explore other articles on our site.