Two senators who represent parts of Limestone County have asked for more information about a proposed bill that would allow the city of Athens to annex Lucy’s Branch Marina in western Limestone County.

If House Bill 579 is approved by the full state Legislature, Athens could annex the island of land several miles west of its western-most border and gain additional sales tax from a planned restaurant, boat and slip rentals, future development of marina property and any alcoholic beverages sold there.

Marina owner Billy Christopher and his partner requested the annexation.

State Sen. Tim Melson, R-Florence, told The News Courier Tuesday afternoon all of the members of local legislative delegation — the five representatives and senators who represent all or part of Limestone County — have signed off on HB 579.

“Everybody signed off, but Sen. (Bill) Holtzclaw has asked for clarification from the mayor and Cannon,” Melson said, referring to Athens Mayor Ronnie Marks and Council President Joseph Cannon.

“The property is seven miles away and they are seeking equal protection under the law,” Melson said, referring to the fact that the city worked out an agreement with Clements Volunteer Fire Department and the Limestone County Sheriff’s Office to provide fire and law enforcement coverage to the marina property.

“And, the county voted to remain dry and now we are trying to find and island for liquor,” Melson said.

(Although the city has legalized the sale of alcohol within its boundaries, Limestone County has not.)

The marina owners plan to bring in a restaurant overlooking the Tennessee River, which would be eligible to sell alcoholic beverages.

“I’m not trying to micromanage (the city), but we want to make sure everything is done in a proper way,” Melson said.

Holtclaw, R-Madison, did not return a call for comment late Tuesday afternoon, though the Legislature was in session and voting at the time.

The local bill has been approved by the Athens City Council and is supported by the Greater Limestone County Chamber of Commerce and others. County officials have voice no opposition to the annexation.

Rep. Danny Crawford, R-Athens, said such “island annexations” have been done for years in Alabama.