Cleveland Councilman Enters Mayoral Race

Cleveland City Councilman Jeff Johnson Tuesday officially entered the race for Mayor.  He says he wants to focus on investing in the city’s neighborhoods. 

Speaking on WVIZ/PBS’s public affairs show "Ideas," Johnson criticized spending on the chandelier in Playhouse Square and the cost of redesigning Public Square.  He’s also opposed to the $88 million in admission tax dollars the city plans to contribute to the cost of renovating Quicken Loans Arena. 

He says his campaign philosophy is “neighborhoods matter.”

“Every neighborhood should be assessed, looked at, and determined what they need.  Campus corner may need business assistance.  I know Glenville needs to deal with its commercial district – get rid of the eyesores, help upgrade.  And then when people come aknocking for $88 million we simply say we got other things we have to take care of first.”

Johnson served on Cleveland city Council in the 1980’s before becoming a state senator and then working in Mayor Jane Campbell’s administration. 

Mayor Frank Jackson has yet to announce whether he’ll seek a fourth term.