Keller @ Large: John Barros On The General Electric Deal

BOSTON (CBS) -- Despite the controversy surrounding it, Boston's Chief of Economic Development John Barros calls General Electric's move to the city a good economic deal.

"Their executives will dine and hopefully tip at local restaurants," Barros said. "They will buy at our retail establishments, they will live in Boston and pay property taxes and be part of the local economy."

Barros sat down with WBZ political analyst Jon Keller to talk about the GE deal and what it means for the state and local economies. The long-time community activist and 2013 Boston mayoral candidate spoke about General Electric's "philanthropic citizenship."

Related: Keller @ Large: We Need More Than Just General Electric

"GE's already talking to us about how it helps with workforce development, how it helps with education," said Barros. "I could see GE being a major player in helping economic mobility for those in the lower income brackets."

Keller and Barros also talked about the differences between the General Electric agreement and the Wynn casino dealings, and the rumors of a public helipad being part of the GE deal.

You can listen to Keller At Large on WBZ News Radio every weekday at 7:55 a.m. You can also watch Jon on WBZ-TV News.