By Angela Hatton
Fort Campbell, KY – Fort Campbell military base officials expect to reduce their operating expenses by as much as 40% this year. The U.S. military is instituting cuts at bases to help compensate for the expense of war in Afghanistan. Fort Campbell officials have instituted a hiring slowdown and a promotion freeze. They've restricted travel and overtime for employees, and they are considering reducing or eliminating grounds maintenance and cleaning services. Fort Campbell Public Affairs Director Kelly Tyler says 120 contracts are under review and may be discontinued. Tyler says services that impact health and safety will not be cut. The base awaits final word on their budget allocation for the 2010 cycle.