A proposed overhaul of St. Joseph County’s tax abatement policy is drawing criticism from several County Council members and residents who say the measure is being rushed through without adequate public review.

Tax abatements, which reduce or defer property taxes for companies expanding or locating in the county, are intended to spur economic development. However, the latest proposal — introduced by Councilman Bryan Tanner with co-sponsors Diana Hess, Mark Catanzarite, Dan Schaetzle, and Jennifer Shabazz — would extend the maximum abatement period to 20 years, a significant increase from the traditional five- or ten-year terms.

The measure appeared last on the agenda during last Tuesday’s lengthy committee meeting, which was dominated by hours of testimony about proposed data centers. Council members received updated language for the bill just hours before the meeting began, leaving little time for review. Some council members said they weren’t aware the issue would even be discussed until the day before.

Three councilmen expressed frustration over the process, warning that the bill could be overshadowed by the high-profile data center debate. Despite those concerns, the bill’s sponsors declined to delay the measure.

Critics argue the proposal prioritizes large corporations over small businesses — which make up 93 percent of the county’s employers — and could further strain taxpayers already facing rising property costs.

The County Council is scheduled to vote on the proposal November 12, the same evening residents are expected to pack council chambers for another contentious hearing on a second data center proposal in New Carlisle.