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La Linea Verde picks North Baltimore for first U.S. plant; county economic director says about 70 jobs expected
Summary
Economic Development Director Wade Gottschalk told commissioners that La Linea Verde will open its first U.S. facility in North Baltimore, creating roughly 70 jobs; he also reported bridge funding for the Northwest Ohio Cooperative Kitchen and rail export activity in Henry Township.
The Wood County Economic Development Executive Director, Wade Gottschalk, briefed the commissioners on local business developments at the March 5 meeting, announcing that Italian manufacturer La Linea Verde has chosen North Baltimore for its first U.S. location.
Gottschalk said the company plans to contract locally for produce used in refrigerated soups and expects to create approximately 70 jobs, with operations targeted for late third quarter or early fourth quarter 2026. He also said the Wood County Economic Development Commission provided bridge funding to keep the Northwest Ohio Cooperative Kitchen (NOCK) operating while a permanent funding source is sought; NOCK supports people launching agricultural businesses.
Gottschalk added that CSX will soon begin loading rail cars with grain in Henry Township to increase exports and reduce empty rail movements, which he said benefits the county’s agricultural economy. He described the planned closing of First Brands Group’s Bowling Green facility as “not good news,” but noted that other companies have expressed interest in hiring that workforce.
Gottschalk said he is working with the City of Perrysburg to update that city’s zoning regulations and with Wood County staff to update the county Land Use Plan.
Next steps: Gottschalk and county staff will continue site planning and zoning updates; the board did not take formal action on these items during the March 5 session.
