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            The Kodiak City Council will hold a special meeting tonight in the borough conference room to approve next year's budget.

            While there are no public hearings slated, there is a public comment period scheduled just before the budget vote.

            In her report to the council, City Manager Aimee Kniaziowski said the proposed budget for the coming fiscal year has been challenging. While spending less money than the current year, it will provide the same level of service to city residents.

            Overall, the city is projecting total revenues-no counting those for capital projects-of $34.6 million, which is down roughly seven percent below the current year's $37.6 million.

            On the expense side, salaries, wages and benefits for employees are the single largest expense, accounting for 41 percent of the proposed Fiscal Year 2013 budget.

            The new budget will take effect July 1.

            In other business, the council will consider adopting the 2012 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy which is used to enhance Kodiak's economic growth and business development.

            Also up for consideration tonight is the economic development contract with the Kodiak Chamber of Commerce and the tourism development contract with the Kodiak Island Convention and Visitor's Bureau.

            The borough and the City of Kodiak usually split the costs of the two annual contracts with the organizations.

            The city council meets at 7:30 in the borough conference room, which is downstairs in the borough building.