BUTLER TWP — Rex Energy’s proposal to build a Marcellus Shale gas well pad on the property of Krendale Golf Course heads to the township commissioners but without a recommendation from the township planning commission.

After hearing the plans Tuesday night, the planning commission refused to vote in favor or against the project.

Board members did not even make a motion to take a vote. After the meeting, some of the members declined to comment, while others said their actions — or lack of actions — were intended to send a message:

They agree with the township engineer, solicitor and zoning officer that the plan meets the zoning ordinance requirements. They just don’t like it.

“It’s too close to residential houses,” said board member Ernie Oesterling.

The well pad would be accessed from Route 68 near its intersection with Eberhart Road and would be capable of housing up to 9 wells. It would be on a portion of the 239-acre lot that is zoned multifamily residential, and is not used by the golf course itself.

About a half-dozen people who live nearby spoke against the well pad, citing threats to water, safety and air quality as well as potential damage to their property values.

No one from the golf course attended the meeting.

The plan will come before the township commissioners at their Sept. 15 meeting.