A push to establish a historic district on Portland’s Munjoy Hill was narrowly rejected in a city council vote Monday night.

The Portland Press Herald reports that the effort was shot down in a 5-4 vote.

The establishment of a historic district would have made it harder to tear down buildings and construct luxury condos. The area is highly sought after by developers for it’s proximity to the ocean and the city’s downtown area. Advocates say new projects would jeopardize the historic character of the area, and reduce affordable housing in the area.

Opponents supported an economic impact study before voting in favor of the measure. Mayor Kate Snyder encouraged councilors to vote in favor of the proposal, and then find funding for an economic study.