Despite 2 percent bump, city’s CAO says budget will be tight because of increasing demands.

The spike in claims costs coincided with the hiring of new firm to manage the program.

Claims are up 50 percent this year, and per-employee costs could jump by six times for some employees, according to projections.

Join us at 12:30 p.m. Friday for an hour-long chat about New Orleans’ 2014 spending plan.

Join us at 6 p.m. to follow the action.

Tonight’s meeting, at Lake Area New Tech Early College High School, starts at 6 p.m.

Starting at 6 p.m., the mayor will take questions about the city’s budget priorities.

The meeting starts at 6 p.m. at Edward Hynes Charter School, 900 Harrison Ave.

Tuesday’s meeting is for residents of City Council District C. It starts at 6 p.m.