URI saves millions on property Uncle Sam no longer wants He doesn't come down chimneys once a year. He is very good at his job. With a sharp eye, a good memory, and years of flea market excursions notched on his belt, Stone can quickly size up property stowed in warehouses, scrap yards, or docks. Current requests are as varied as an air compressor and a 15-slot mailbox. Excess property and surplus property are as different as apples and oranges.
Excess property is scarcer, more valuable and in demand.
The federal government, most frequently the National Science Foundation and the United States Department of Agriculture technically retains title to the property while the University becomes its caretaker. Surplus property, on the other hand, has no stipulations. Stone sometimes takes an expert along. Stone credits his success to good working relationships on campus and off, particularly with Sharon Barlett of Defense, Reutilization and Marketing Service in Portsmouth, N.H., Karen Underwood, property disposal officer in Groton, Conn., and Robert Pesaturo of Rhode Island Surplus Property. His energy and 'can do' attitude have made a significant difference for many.