The latest local news, weather and high school sports in and around Columbia and Jefferson City

Retail purchases in downtown Columbia will soon cost a little more. It was a decision made final by a couple dozen people.

The half-cent sales tax increase passed during Tuesday’s special election.

Only those who reside in the downtown district were eligible to vote.

Of the 121 people eligible to vote, 40 voted. 25 people voted for the tax, 15 against it.

City leaders said the new tax could generate about $300,000 a year to be used for downtown enhancement projects.