Baxter Votes To Support Annexation For Portobello Facility

Baxter Aldermen voted Thursday to support the annexation of property for the Portobello America facility.

Mayor John Martin said it’s one of the many commitments required by the ceramic tile manufacturer.

“What they are needing is an assurance that our board is in full agreement of annexation of the 53 acres of property that joins the race track,” Martin said. “After closing on the property, then we will have meetings and public hearing to do the annexation of that 53 acres.”

Martin said the company plans to have part of the facility built by November or December of this year.

“As soon as everything is finalized with the property, the new plant is wanting to build maybe the office space and warehouse on the race track property,” Martin said.

Portobello plans to invest $150 million to open the U.S. headquarters at the old Tennessee Motor Speedway site.

The facility should be operational by 2021.