Wharton County leaders have approved the ’26 budget and ’25 tax rate, keeping with an 18-year streak of not raising property taxes. The new rate is slightly lower at 34.5 cents per $100 of value, dropping the average homeowner’s bill by about $13. Rising property values helped the county balance a $39 million budget without new taxes. The plan funds six new sheriff’s vehicles, courthouse roof repairs, and $2.4 million for roadwork. It also includes a 3% cost-of-living raise for employees. Officials say the county remains debt-free for now.