Williston Considers Dining/Lodging Tax

WILLISTON, N.D. (AP) — City commissioners in Williston are considering imposing a 1 percent dining and lodging tax to fund downtown parking improvements and other upgrades, possibly even paving the way for a convention center.

The Williston Herald reports the state Tax Department estimates a 1 percent tax on restaurant meals, alcohol drinks and hotel rooms could generate $1.2 million per year.

The City Commission earlier this month approved a 126-page plan to guide development downtown. It identifies about 43,000 square feet of ground-level space that's available for new retail businesses, to go with about 14,500 square feet under development. It also cites challenges to development, such as potential problems with traffic and parking.