Community demands action on blighted property after three years

Residents of Oxford voiced their concerns during a recent government meeting regarding an amended ordinance affecting a property at 96 Westlake Drive, which has been under construction for three years. Community members expressed frustration over the presence of a camper and porta potty situated close to the road, describing it as a blight on their neighborhood.

One resident urged the council to approve a six-month extension for the property owner instead of a nine-month period, arguing that prolonged construction without progress indicates a lack of commitment to the project. The property owner is currently appealing for an extension of his permits, which would allow him to continue living on the site in a manner akin to a campsite.

Another resident raised questions about the implications of the new ordinance on the property owner's appeal, specifically whether he would be subject to the updated regulations if granted an extension. The council clarified that such inquiries could not be addressed during the public hearing.

Further testimony came from Rebecca Mask, who highlighted the ongoing delays in construction and the community's growing concerns about the potential for loopholes in the ordinance that could allow for continued extensions. Mask emphasized the rapid growth of the county and the strain it places on local infrastructure, urging the council to consider the long-term implications of their decisions.

Overall, the meeting underscored the community's desire for accountability and clarity regarding property development regulations, as residents seek to maintain the integrity of their neighborhood amidst ongoing construction challenges.