A plan to rezone marinas in Brookhaven so they can operate legally and possibly expand is finding critics and supporters around the town's boatyards.

A new proposal would create a zoning code specifically for marinas in Brookhaven. Town officials say the move would allow marinas to add services such as bait and tackle shops or a restaurant.

David Kazmark, of Patchogue Shores Marina, says he supports the idea, saying it would be a benefit for his family who may enter the boating business in the future.

Other marina owners say they agree with the goals of the proposal, but say adding other services may not go over well with their neighbors.

“If I was to put a notice up telling [my neighbors] I was opening a restaurant here, I don't think they would go for it," said Ken Hilderbrandt, of Beaver Dam Boat Basin.

Currently, Brookhaven’s J2 business zone does not allow marinas, even though there more than a dozen of them currently operating. If passed, the proposal would allow those marinas to comply with town zoning code.

Councilman Dan Panico told News 12 that the change would be beneficial to marina owners.

“Currently, these marinas are inappropriately zoned. Because of this, most cannot come into legal compliance. It's an issue that no one in the town has undertaken for decades, but a crucial one."

Town officials say adding certain services, like a restaurant, would require a special permit. The vote on the proposal is scheduled for Thursday.