Wharton residents may see a slight drop in property tax rates but higher utility bills under the city’s early budget plans. The proposed tax rate is $0.41319 per $100 in value, down from last year, but rising property values could still mean bigger tax bills. Water and sewer rates could increase up to 10 percent, adding about $11 a month for the average household. Garbage collection may also rise by $1.36 monthly. Officials cite aging infrastructure repairs as a key cost driver, with final budget decisions expected in upcoming city meetings.