NBC NATIONAL NEWS — The East Baton Rouge Metro Council is meeting now to work out the final formula to the city-parish budget for 2013.

Mayor Kip Holden presented his 511 page proposal last month, right under the wire for his deadline.

His proposed budget calls for a 4 percent increase in spending; the Mayor's office predicts the economy to improve next year.

Among the specific points being discussed right now are a $3 million drop in allowance for the city's bus system and a seven percent increase in funding for the police department.

 NBC33's David Lippman will have more information on the budget on NBC33 News at 10.