The Port of Bellingham has released a draft of its 2013 strategic budget and plans to hold two public hearings in November before the port commission approves spending levels.

Major capital projects port staff would like to move on next year include completing the $38.5 million terminal expansion at the Bellingham International Airport and launching in-water work for a cleanup project at the Whatcom Waterway on the city’s waterfront, which is budgeted for nearly $21 million in 2013.

The public hearings are scheduled during two upcoming commission meetings: one on Tuesday, Nov. 6, the other on Tuesday, Nov. 20. Both meetings begin at 3 p.m. in the Harbor Center Conference Room, 1801 Roeder Ave.

The budget draft has been posted on the port’s website for public review. Digital copies on CDs are also available at the port’s administrative offices at 1801 Roeder Ave.

Quick facts

– Port officials forecast $22.7 million in total operating revenues for 2013, including revenue from passenger and aviation fees at the airport, real estate leases, boat moorage and marine terminal operations.

– The port anticipates a 5.1 percent increase in operating revenue coupled with a 2.8 percent increase in operating expenses in 2013.

– No new staff additions have been proposed, as well as no property tax increases.

– Within the next year, port officials would like to secure a developer for phase one of the Waterfront District redevelopment, as well as a developer for a planned hotel on Bellingham airport property.

Contact Evan Marczynski at evan@bbjtoday.com or call 360-647-8805.