The property of an authority is exempt from all taxes and special assessments of the State or any city, county, or political subdivision of the State. In lieu of such taxes or special assessments the authority may agree to make payments to any city, county, or political subdivision of the State for services, improvements, or facilities furnished by such city, county, or political subdivision for the benefit of a housing project owned by the authority; but in no event shall such payments exceed the estimated cost to such city, county, or political subdivision of the services, improvements, or facilities.