Cleveland’s mayor looks to protect city’s interest in Continental-United merger
Crain's Cleveland Business – Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson hopes to work amicably with Continental Airlines as it merges with United Airlines. But the mayor said his first priority is protecting the level of air service that passes through Cleveland Hopkins International Airport and the jobs of the people who work there.
At a news conference this morning at City Hall, Mayor Jackson said he spoke Sunday night with Continental CEO Jeffery Smisek and that Mr. Smisek has agreed to meet with him soon to discuss Hopkins' role in the merged airline.
“We will protect our interests,” Mayor Jackson said. “Even though we have had a great relationship (with Continental) over the years, it is business and we will be looking out for our interests.”
Mayor Jackson was joined at the news conference by U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown, U.S. Rep. Dennis Kucinich and Cleveland City Council president Martin Sweeney.
