Homeowners told North Fayette supervisors last night they are worried about coal removal operations at the planned Botanic Garden at Settlers Cabin Park.

Resident Marty Spicer said blasting could exacerbate problems with sinkholes in his Holly Hill neighborhood, built on previously mined land.

"I really think you guys are going to cause a lot of subsidence," Mr. Spicer said. "Maybe not on day one, but ... down the road."

The township had sent letters to about 140 property owners located within a half-mile of the area in which contractors expect to use explosives to loosen rock to access a coal seam.

Supervisors held the public hearing in the CCAC West Hills Center to consider the Horticultural Society of Western Pennsylvania's application for conditional use to remove coal from 164 acres roughly bordered by Gamble, Noblestown and Pinkerton roads.

Attendees included about 15 residents; botanic garden representatives and their contractors, and township staff. Also attending were County Councilman Michael Finnerty; state Sen. John Pippy, R-Moon; and state Rep. Mark Mustio, R-Moon.