Durham commissioners finalize meal tax referendum

Durham, N.C. — Durham commissioners finalized a referendum for a one-percent sales tax on prepared food Monday evening.

The proceeds from the tax will be divided between beautification and cleanup, community marketing, workforce development and civic, cultural and recreational projects, Durham Convention and Visitors Bureau President Reyn Bowman said.

The  tax could raise between $5 million and $7 million a year, officials said. Supporters say the cost will be minimal to the average person, possible $18 a year.

The referendum will be placed on the Durham County ballot in November.