WBRZ - Baton Rouge

BATON ROUGE - The East Baton Rouge Mayor-President delivered next year's budget to Metro Council this morning. With it, he delivered news that jobs and services will stay intact, despite operating costs coming in 2.5% less than last year.

In his address to council, Kip Holden said public safety will remain his priority next year, and he's backing it up with big money. Revitalization efforts are also receiving a boost in financial support.

Technology, planning, finance and public works are bearing some of the biggest burdens. Those are mostly in hiring freezes and vacant position eliminations.