A proposed residential redevelopment of the former Highland Park Solo Cup factory has taken its first steps forward after sparking lengthy debates before the City Council, both in recent months and during a special meeting last week.

Although all council members voted to approve the preliminary development plan, plat of subdivision and zoning map amendment for 1660-1700 Old Deerfield Road, the unanimous vote marked the end to a meeting that went late into the night, with city leaders debating everything from landscaping to broader questions about the future of the city.

The project has stirred controversy in the community, with area residents packing previous Plan Commission meetings to voice their concerns, primarily about the development’s density and related traffic issues. Residents

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