New taxes to fund development in the Blackstone District moved forward after a vote Tuesday.
The council passed the occupation tax requested by developers who said they needed more money to fund the restoration of the Blackstone Hotel at 36th and Farnam.
Businesses will charge extra for food and drink as well as retail beginning on Jan. 1. The tax will be roughly 12 percent total.
Supporters believe the development will help Blackstone thrive.