Housing in Lafayette County, or the lack of affordable family housing, continues to be at the forefront in the lives of many as more developments catered towards students living off campus pop up all over the community.

Officials, however, may be curbing that trend.

This week, the Oxford Planning Commission halted a proposed development off Price Hill Road because members felt the project was not in harmony with the surrounding neighborhoods.

The proposed development, U Club Townhomes, came before the commission in November but was tabled to allow the developer, American Campus, to meet with residents on Price Hill Road, St. Andrew’s Circle and Country Club Road.

The property, proposed to consist of of 68 duplex units, with 132 three-bedroom buildings consisting of more than 550 beds, is located on six acres north of Jackson Avenue West, east of Price Hill Road and west of the old Oxford Mall.

Many neighbors in the area voiced their displeasure with the proposed project at the meeting and on the EAGLE Facebook page. Many who commented agreed with the decision of the commission and several asked why more affordable family housing is not available in the community.

We have that same question and it’s time officials come together with developers to  find that balance between student housing and family affordable housing for  residents who live here year-round.