The San Francisco Board of Supervisors overwhelmingly approved the controversial Twitter tax break today, a move that (hopefully) will keep the microblogging service from fleeing the city. "The measure passed by the Board of Supervisors 8-3 on Tuesday exempts the microblogging service from paying payroll tax on new hires if it moves to the city's neglected Mid-Market area," reports Associated Press. "The exemption applies to any business in the blighted neighborhood, but city officials call Twitter the big fish that could spur economic growth." Twitter is now expected to sign a six-year lease in the neighborhood.

Progressive D6 Supervisor Jane Kim, if you recall, first introduced the legislation that would give tax incentives to area businesses -- as well as any that relocate to gritty area.

Supervisors David Chiu, Carmen Chu, Malia Cohen, Sean Elsbernd, Mark Farrell, Jane Kim and Scott Wiener all voted in favor. Supervisors John Avalos, David Campos and Ross Mirkarimi opposed.

The final approval must go before Mayor Ed Lee, a strong supporter of the tax break.

[via CBS 5, Seattle PI]