ZEELAND — The Zeeland Planning Commission gave its initial blessing Wednesday, June 25, to a rezoning request from Mead Johnson, a move that would allow the infant formula manufacturer to grow its facility onto neighboring residential land. 

The proposal involves rezoning parcels at 605 and 633 E. Main Ave. from residential to general industrial, clearing the way for the demolition of eight townhomes and a single-family home with a barn.

This rezoning is a key component of Mead Johnson's $836 million plant modernization project. 

The request will advance to the city commission for a final decision on July 10, with a subsequent review by the city council on July 21.

Mead Johnson said in a statement released to the Ottawa News Network that the vote in favor of rezoning is “an important milestone to enable essential upgrades to our facility and reflects an appreciation for the vital work our nearly 500 local employees do to provide high-quality nutrition for infants."

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The statement went on to say that it “reflects the confidence Zeeland leaders have in Mead Johnson to deliver the many benefits outlined in our modernization plan, and in continuing to operate as a trusted member of our community.”

“To the community of Zeeland, which we’ve called home for more than 100 years: thank you for your trust. We are proud to continue investing in this community, and we pledge to honor the confidence you have placed in us."

Those living in the townhomes are not happy with the decision. Mead Johnson owns the Main Avenue parcels and has given the residents until the end of the year to find somewhere else to live. The Zeeland facility currently employs about 500 people, with an anticipated addition of 25 jobs through the expansion.

— Heather VanDyke covers northern Ottawa County for the Ottawa News Network. Contact her at newsroom@ottawanewsnetwork.org.