Sales tax rebates in Wharton County and its cities are down despite rising prices. April collections fell by up to 18% compared to last year, with El Campo, Wharton, and East Bernard seeing drops. El Campo’s rebates dropped 6.83%, while Wharton’s fell 17.46%. Wharton County’s rebate dropped 11.82%. These declines come as overall prices have risen 2.4%, according to the latest Consumer Price Index. Local governments are now preparing for budget talks amid the possibility of continued revenue losses.