Politics & Government

Top Stories of 2011: Nestle Expansion

In 2011, Nestle announced the company would be expanding its presence in Solon by building a new facility and adding jobs

Editor's Note: Between Dec. 27 and New Year's Eve, Solon Patch will count down the top five stories of 2011. We compiled this list in two ways: Feedback from our users and our own editorial judgment. Want to comment on our choices? Head down to the comments section!

Top Stories of the Year, No. 5: Nestle Expansion

You know it's big news when one of Solon's largest employers announces an expansion and a promise to add new jobs.

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In August, announced that it wanted to build a new research and design facility in Solon to expand its frozen food business. The new facility would add 40 to 60 new jobs, Nestle officials said.

But the 18-acre parcel where the company wanted to build its facility was zoned residential, so the company decided to seek a rezoning by ballot in November.

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While some residents opposed the rezoning, even forming a group to protest turning residential land into an industrial zone, it won easily at the polls.

What's Next? Now that Nestle has had its land rezoned, the company must submit its designs to city planners. The plans will need to be approved by the city council, and they will be vetted thoroughly by various committees. Expect this story to continue in 2012.

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