The El Campo City Council is considering a potential three-cent tax hike next year, contingent on a property base growth of less than 1%. This follows a disappointing report from the Wharton County Central Appraisal District, contrasting sharply with the previous two years’ growth of over 6% and 11%. The council is also debating the addition of two new staff positions amidst concerns over recent sales tax declines and unexpected debt for utility repairs.