Still debt free, county prepares for 2025

Our elected county officials worked hard to keep you informed and involved.

Through biweekly radio interviews, monthly newspaper columns and numerous civic and stakeholder meetings, we kept you updated on where and how your tax dollars are being spent, while inviting your feedback.

Twelve Consecutive Years Of A Balanced Budget:

For over a decade, commissioners court has kept county expenses in line with expected revenues, consistently lowering our local tax rate.

With a current levy of $0.36418 per $100 in taxable property, Wharton County ranks eighth out of 23 local taxing entities and 206th out of 254 counties in Texas, placing us in the bottom 25% for tax rates.

Commitment To Remaining Debt-Free:

Wharton County has proudly remained 100% debt-free since February 2012.

This commitment means your tax dollars go directly to local services rather than paying off loans, interest or fees.

Investing In Essential Equipment Without Raising Taxes:

Thanks to our pay-as-you-go policy, the county was able to purchase $3.1 million in much-needed equipment without borrowing money or increasing taxes.

This included six new sheriff patrol cars, law enforcement radios, equipment for precincts and drainage, computer and Internet upgrades, new HVAC systems, a remodel of storage facility, and the construction of a new complex for future public defender’s office.

Improvements To County Drainage Systems:

In 2024, over $2.6 million was spent on drainage improvements throughout the county, including tree clearing, ditch widening and the installation of new culverts and drop pipes.

Key projects included Jackson Quarters, Montgomery Road, Mustang Creek, FM 960 adjacent to and through the fairgrounds, and Gardner Slough from FM 1096 to FM 442 through the Pyson Addition.

Promoting County-Wide Cost Sharing Initiatives:

Local municipalities and precinct commissioners continue to collaborate, sharing resources and expenses. Notable collaborations include:

• Working with local cities to develop a county-wide Transportation Plan in preparation for I-69 expansion, including TxDOT’s $169 million project from Kendleton to Wharton and their $350 million expansion of the Wharton Bypass between Hwy. 60 North and FM 961.

• Administering a $500,000 Texas Community Development Block Recovery Grant project that will improve drainage and water systems in the Issacson Municipal Utility District in El Campo.

• Collaborating with City of El Campo to repave a portion of Fred Street near the IMUD.

• Working with City of Wharton to repave approximately 1,500 feet of CR 140.

• Contributing $98,000 to Wharton County Junior College for the county-wide Senior Citizenship Program (Meals on Wheels).

Securing State And Federal Grants For County Improvements:

Wharton County secured over $30 million in state and federal grants to fund a variety of projects, including:

• $11.75 million from the CDBG Flood Mitigation Grant to fund major drainage projects in Blue Creek, Boling Township and East Bernard.

• $8.1 million from the U.S. Department of Treasury Rescue Grant to refurbish approximately 85 miles of county roads.

• $6.9 million from the CDBG MIT Grant to add river gauges and map the San Bernard River Basin.

• $2.24 million from the HUD CDBG Block Grant for a local floodplain buyout program.

• $788,000 from the Texas Community Development Block Grant for drainage improvements in and around Montgomery Lane.

• $613,000 from CDBG-DR for the CR 130 Diversion Channel upgrade.

• $600,000 from the Indigent Defense and State SB-22 Law Enforcement grants to fund local judicial activities.

• $350,000 from the Texas Juvenile Justice Department to support juvenile probation services.

• $20,000 in combined library support grants from various foundations.

• $1.2 million in TxDOT grants for bridge construction on multiple county roads.

Looking Ahead To 2025:

Despite national challenges, 2024 was another year of progress and achievement for Wharton County.

As we look forward to 2025, precinct commissioners remain focused on reducing local property taxes, securing grants to enhance infrastructure, and improving county wide roads and drainage systems.

We appreciate your continued support as we work together for the good of all Wharton County residents.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!