A split St. Joseph County Council approved a new tax abatement policy Wednesday night, passing the “Community First Investment Ordinance” on a 5-4 vote.

The plan reduces the county’s abatement rules from 24 pages to nine and adds state-law options, including enhanced abatements for up to 20 years.

Supporters say the streamlined policy will make it easier for small businesses to apply and encourages using local contractors when possible. Critics argue it weakens competitive bidding, doesn’t require local labor, and may be too broad to help the smallest businesses.

The ordinance now heads to the St. Joseph County Board of Commissioners for approval or veto.