There are close to 250 people gathered in a ballroom at the Coeur d'Alene Resort now for the Priest Lake cabin-site auction, and state Lands Department deputy director Patrick Hodges says the number of sites on the auction block has jumped back up to 60, after one that had dropped out as of two days ago opted back in.

Some bidders have filed to bid on more than one property, the auctioneer has told the crowd. "Do not bid unless you are prepared to bid," he said. "We’re bidding for land only. ... The amount will be due in full today."