Brandi Jimenez

The adopted annual budget for the City of Wharton for the fiscal year 2025-2026 focuses on maintaining existing service levels and implementing budget requests and priorities identified during the budget process. Key initiatives include flood reduction through the construction of the Phase I levee project, upgrades to State Highway 59 into Interstate 69, and the construction of sidewalks throughout the City. The budget also addresses infrastructure improvements to the utility department, street department, and the municipal airport. The financial outlook for the City remains steady, with building permits and sales tax revenue expected to increase. Revenues and appropriations are detailed across various funds, including the General Fund, Special Revenue Funds, Debt Service Fund, Capital Improvement Fund, and Enterprise Funds.

The proposed budget maintains existing service levels and implements budget requests and priorities identified during the budget process with the City Council. The most important initiative is to provide and improve flood reduction in the City. The budget includes funding for street or drainage improvements for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. The proposed budget includes 114 full- time positions for the 2025-2026 fiscal year.

The governing body of Emergency Services District #3 proposed a tax rate of $0.08197 per $100 valuation. The notice explains the no-new-revenue tax rate and the voter-approval tax rate, clarifying that the proposed rate is not greater than either, meaning no property tax increase is proposed for the 2025 tax year. The document encourages public attendance and provides contact information for expressing support or opposition. It also includes a comparison of taxes imposed on the average residence homestead between 2024 and 2025, along with contact information for tax calculation assistance.

The City of Wharton is developing a Downtown Master Plan to guide the growth, development, and revitalization of the downtown area. The plan aims to create a vision for Downtown Wharton, providing a framework for future policies and programming to promote it as a vibrant destination and enhance the quality of life for residents, businesses, and visitors.

The Downtown Master Plan for the City of Wharton focuses on creating a vision for downtown, guiding anticipated growth, development, and revitalization. It aims to promote downtown as a vibrant destination, enhance the quality of life for residents, businesses, and visitors, create a safe and walkable experience, establish a unique visual identity, and provide engaging gathering spaces. The plan also addresses parking, beautification, market needs, infrastructure upgrades, and integration with TxDOT roadway improvements, while partnering with the EDC to invest and revitalize the area.