Notice of auction sales under this subdivision shall be given by publication in the official newspaper of the city for three publications. The first publication of such notice shall be not less than 30 days before such sale, and the last such notice shall not be less than ten days before such sale. Such notice shall generally describe the nature of items to be offered for sale and state the time and place of the sale. The terms of all sales shall be for cash or certified check and the proceeds shall be credited to the general fund of the City. (Code 1979, § 2-31)