Wharton County leaders have approved a $76 million plan to build a new 240-bed jail—marking the county’s first debt in 13 years and first tax hike in nearly two decades. Judge Phillip Spenrath says the project on East Elm and North Resident Streets will prepare Wharton County for long-term growth driven by new housing and I-69 expansion. The 20-year bond, approved without a public vote, will raise taxes by about five to six cents per $100 in property value. The new jail replaces the aging 144-bed facility.