St. Joseph County Commissioners have voted down a proposed property tax deferment program aimed at helping low-income seniors.

The measure, introduced by County Council member Amy Drake, would have allowed qualifying seniors to delay paying a portion of their property taxes until they sell their homes.

Commissioners rejected the proposal Tuesday, citing concerns about the long-term sustainability of the program and the potential for confusion among taxpayers.

The deferment plan was part of a broader four-point “Affordability Agenda” introduced earlier this year by several Republican council members to address rising property taxes.

Drake said the proposal was modeled after the county’s existing property tax cap program for residents age 55 and older.

Following the vote, Drake questioned whether commissioners had the legal authority to block the measure.

County officials say the proposal could be revised and brought back for consideration later this year.