Collier County residents raise alarm over blasting at Jeff Greene mine

Blasts, cracks — and broken promises

Homeowners in Golden Gate Estates continue to report powerful ground shakes from a limestone mining operation tied to billionaire Jeff Greene. Residents say the blasts are strong enough to rattle windows, shift furniture, and leave cracks in interior walls and exterior foundations.

Several homeowners have described watching their homes tremble during the September 2023 blasts, with some noticing structural damage within minutes. Many say these issues only began after nearby blasting increased in intensity, leaving them concerned about long-term impacts on home safety and property value.

Disputed Damage and Frustration

Residents who reported damage say the mining company arranged inspections but used an engineering firm with longstanding ties to the operator, creating doubts about the neutrality of the evaluations. Homeowners recount that the findings often attributed visible damage to routine aging rather than recent seismic activity from blasting.

Attempts to get county support have led to frustration. Homeowners say they’ve been directed toward civil courts rather than receiving structural oversight or formal county involvement, leaving many feeling as though they’re navigating the issue alone.

Expansion Plans Heighten Tensions

The mining operator, Quality Enterprises USA, Inc., is now seeking approval to expand its blasting zone — bringing detonation activity to roughly 1,300 feet from several homes. Residents argue the mine is already too close and fear an expansion could accelerate structural damage or create new safety concerns.

Many homeowners say they were never made aware during their property searches that blasting could occur so near residential areas, nor that the mine sat on a large 2,800-acre parcel that allowed such industrial activity. Only after moving in did they realize the volume and intensity of mining operations.

County Contracts Raise Eyebrows

Adding to public concern is the fact that Collier County has awarded substantial infrastructure contracts to the same company operating the mine. Residents question whether the financial relationship may discourage stricter oversight or responsiveness from officials when concerns are raised.

County staff have generally framed home damage complaints as private disputes between residents and the mining operator, creating a gap between community expectations and the county’s regulatory posture.

Residents Call for Transparency and Independent Review

Homeowners in Golden Gate Estates are now mobilizing, calling for independent structural assessments, clearer blasting oversight, and greater transparency from both the mining company and county officials. Many believe blasting should pause until an unbiased third party can evaluate safety risks and verify whether vibrations are contributing to home damage.

Residents say this is no longer just a zoning dispute — it’s about protecting their homes, their investments, and their peace of mind. As the mining operator pushes forward with expansion plans, the community is preparing for a larger fight to ensure their concerns are taken seriously.