Shop That Fought School in Eminent Domain Case Closes

MUNCIE, IN—Hiatt Printing, the campus printing shop that locked horns with Ball State University back in 2012 when the school threatened to use eminent domain power to seize the printer's McKinley Avenue property, has closed its doors, The Star Press reported.

Hiatt Printing's real estate was desired by the school, which sought to make it a part of a proposed $25 million McKinley Commons facility. The project was slated to feature a learning center for hospitality and food management students, including hotels and restaurants.

But Hiatt and Ball State were unable to negotiate a purchase price for the building on McKinley Avenue that houses Hiatt Printing. Chris Hiatt was seeking $1.3 million, and he reportedly rejected an offer of $400,000 for the property. According to The Star Press, three court-appointed appraisers valued the property at $375,000.

When the parties were unable to reach an agreement on price, Ball State filed the eminent domain lawsuit in 2012. Last June, though, the university said it was putting those plans on hold and would not be pursuing eminent domain.

Neither owner Chris Hiatt nor university officials would comment to The Star Press on the plant closure or if the property has now been acquired by the university. Hiatt also did not return an e-mail request from Printing Impressions seeking comment.

Hiatt Printing also maintains another facility on Wheeling Avenue.