Highland council authorizes eminent‑domain proceedings for 8401 Indianapolis Boulevard

The Highland Town Council voted unanimously on Jan. 26 to retain outside counsel and begin eminent‑domain proceedings for the commercial property at 8401 Indianapolis Boulevard, commonly referred to in the minutes as "Ultra." Councilor Philip Scheeringa moved to retain Attorney John Reed to commence the proceedings; Councilor Tom Black seconded and the motion passed on a 5–0 roll‑call vote.

Town officials said the property may be taken only if the proposed project will promote economic development, create jobs or otherwise provide a legitimate public advantage. The minutes state that a 30‑day waiting period had expired with no response from the property owner and note, "The property owner is entitled to 120% of the fair market value." The Council did not provide specific project plans at the meeting.

Council President George Georgeff presided over the vote. The minutes record no public comment opposing or supporting the eminent‑domain action during the meeting. Attorney Reed, the counsel the Council voted to retain, was noted as the attorney to handle the proceedings; the minutes record him as the retained counsel but do not include a statement from Reed at this meeting.

Next steps recorded in the minutes: Attorney Reed will be retained to move forward with eminent‑domain filings. The minutes do not set a timeline for filings, hearings, or compensation calculations; the Town will follow statutory procedures for property valuation and owner compensation.

The Council's action authorizes staff and retained counsel to begin the legal process; any future condemnation hearing, valuation report or final acquisition will be subject to further proceedings and public notice.