Ball State University ends MiddleTown contract, asks firm stop using BSU, other school trademarks

MUNCIE − Embattled MiddleTown Properties will have to find a new name for its BSU Rentals division if Ball State University gets its way.

In a statement to The Star Press, a university spokesman said: "BSU Rentals is a non-registered business name being used by MiddleTown Property Group, a company that is not affiliated with or endorsed by Ball State University. Ball State recently sent a cease and desist order to MiddleTown demanding that the company cease using the 'BSU' trademark and any other Ball State university trademarks in any manner whatsoever."

The university also said it had dropped a "contractual relationship" with MiddleTown for property management services for properties off campus that were not associated with any complaints from tenants.

In reaction to the decisions by Ball State, Middletown released a statement: "As a family owned and operated business, we take pride in addressing issues professionally and thoroughly when they arise. We live, work and invest in Muncie and are trying to establish a business that is responsive to tenants, property owners and the community."

The statement said the firm’s legal counsel is reviewing the cease-and-desist order from Ball State University.