Durham meal tax supporters kick off campaign
Posted September 16, 2008 7:59 p.m. EDT
Updated September 17, 2008 9:27 a.m. EDT
Durham, N.C. — Supporters of a 1 percent meal tax in Durham kicked off their campaign Tuesday.
Two weeks ago, Durham commissioners finalized a referendum for the tax on prepared food.
The proceeds from the tax would be divided among beautification and cleanup; community marketing; work force 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 estimated. Supporters say the cost will be minimal to the average person, possibly $18 a year.
Opponents of the tax cite poor timing in an already struggling economy.
The referendum will be on Durham County ballots in November.