Wharton County leaders have changed how local businesses qualify for tax breaks. In a close 3–2 vote, commissioners approved new guidelines that lower the minimum investment needed for county tax abatements — $500,000 for existing firms and $1 million for new ones. County Judge Phillip Spenrath says the standards can still change case-by-case, aiming to lure good-paying jobs without giving away county revenue. Opponents pushed for stricter limits, warning the bar is too low, while supporters say the move keeps Wharton competitive with nearby counties.