-- St. Joseph County Council began a series of budget discussions today, reviewing funding priorities and challenges ahead of finalizing next year's spending plan. St. Joseph County Council president Bryan Tanner says the 2027 budget focuses on infrastructure, public safety and quality-of-place projects, particularly public green spaces and parks. According to Tanner, St. Joseph County has already reduced its property tax rate by about 14% over the past five years. St. Joseph County Council began a series of budget discussions today, reviewing funding priorities and challenges ahead of finalizing next year's spending plan. According to Tanner, St. Joseph County has already reduced its property tax rate by about 14% over the past five years.