By Brenda L. Showalter
The Republic
A federal bankruptcy judge has ruled that John Hubler Nissan-Suzuki Inc. of Columbus can continue selling vehicles while its owner restructures the business and develops a plan to pay creditors.
Gary Hostetler, attorney for owner John Hubler, said the ruling will last until the end of the month, but he hopes it can be extended.
“We’re back in business, but we need a more long-term arrangement,” Hostetler said.
A hearing is scheduled for Jan. 21 in U.S. Bankruptcy Court Southern District of Indiana in Indianapolis.
Chapter 11 bankruptcy was filed in December for the auto dealership on Jonathan Moore Pike that was facing seizure of 185 vehicles with a value of $3.6 million.
Hubler’s supplier, Nissan Motor Acceptance Corp., filed a complaint in Bartholomew Superior Court 1 claiming that Hubler had not made timely payments.
Judge Chris Monroe ordered that the vehicles could be seized by Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Department, but the order became moot when Hubler sought reorganization in bankruptcy court.
“The agreed order allows us to buy and sell vehicles and to stay in business,” Hostetler said.
“We’re working toward doing what we can on a more permanent basis.”
Throughout the past month, the dealership has continued to operate its parts and service department.
Hubler’s attorneys also have filed a listing of the dealership’s 20 largest unsecured claims.
Debts range from $68,900 to $5,869 to entities in Columbus, Indianapolis and other states.
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