The Baltimore County Council on Monday approved a major tax break for a politically connected developer, according to our media partner, The Baltimore Banner .

The deal grants $16.5 million in property tax reductions over 30 years in exchange for setting aside 10% of units for affordable housing at two redevelopment projects.

Howard Brown, the developer, holds a major stake in Metro Center in Owings Mills and previously owned part of Security Square Mall in Woodlawn.

The Security Square revitalization project is in its early stages. The county owns 39 of the mall's 88 acres, including the former Macy's and Sears stores, and is seeking a developer to add homes, shops and transit connections.

Supporters, including Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier, commended the council on it

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