Tulsa and state leaders react to Citgo's decision to leave Tulsa

After more than three decades in Tulsa, Citgo's move will certainly have a ripple effect on the community and the economy. <br><br>Tulsa Mayor Bill LaFortune says despite this setback, Tulsa's

Monday, April 26th 2004, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

After more than three decades in Tulsa, Citgo's move will certainly have a ripple effect on the community and the economy.

Tulsa Mayor Bill LaFortune says despite this setback, Tulsa's economy is rebounding. News on 6 anchor Scott Thompson says Mayor LaFortune says he found out Monday morning Citgo was moving from the company's CEO Luis Marin.

He calls the move quote "disappointing", but he says the important thing is that Tulsa is keeping 300 jobs here. The mayor told the media Monday afternoon he didn't think there was anything more the city could have done over the last eight months to keep Citgo from leaving.

Mayor LaFortune tried to emphasize the good news. He says Citgo will continue a strong presence in Tulsa, with 300 jobs staying here. He also said Citgo's leadership told him the company would maintain its ties and commitment to the community. But losing 700 jobs is a major blow, but the mayor says Tulsa's economy is still rebounding. He says Tulsa has added four thousand jobs since the beginning of the year. "While this is certainly a setback the overall atmosphere for Tulsa and Tulsa's future job-wise is excellent."

Mayor Bill LaFortune says we're already working to replace and add jobs.

Oklahoma Governor Brad Henry is also reacting to Citgo's decision to leave Tulsa. The Governor sent us a statement that says despite the city's best efforts, numerous circumstances contributed to Citgo's decision to move its headquarters to Houston. "Given the economic successes Oklahoma, and particularly Tulsa, have chalked up in recent months, I think Citgo's departure is the exception rather than the rule.â€