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Weather, post-covid hiring continues to affect business

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Earlier this season, Gibbs said he was seeing some lulls that forced him to change things up a little.

“I had to shift my people away from the day shift because a lot of us on the Boardwalk just felt that the day shift was very soft. That’s probably the best way to put that,” he said of the scenario several weeks ago.

He added that he and some other business owners were also still adjusting to a post-covid world, which is unlike anything they had ever experienced.

“You just can’t compare the two covid years to anything else … They’re the outliers here,” Gibbs said.

Susan Jones, the executive director of the OC Hotel-Motel Restaurant Association, said in an email recently that the feedback she has received from hotel and restaurant owners regarding staffing and business has been all over the board.

“Some folks have really been creative with reducing menu offerings (taking off items that are most expensive to prepare), highlighting best sellers, etc. And savings from operational efficiencies are helping with the bottom line,” she said. “It certainly isn’t way off, but anecdotally, it is feeling slower.”

Jones added that the last two years, while not great for staffing, were overall positive for resort businesses.

“We know that we had two years that were fabulous — 2020 had stimulus spending and 2021 visitors were still not back to cruising/flying,” she said.

Tourism data through May shows that occupancies were down, but there were some weeks of rain. The weather has since shaped up, which will likely show in the reports for the rest of the summer.

After this week, Gibbs said he expects crowds to dwindle even more as people get back into their regular routines and exit vacation mode. However, he anticipates some busy weekends through the fall that may extend the season for the downtown restaurants.

“The Boardwalk stores [stay open] until at least Columbus day, but due to changes in the schedule of events, we might go a little longer than we normally do,” he said. “If we have the staff, if we have the numbers that we do. There’s a lot of ifs there.”

MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY Boardwalk businesses like the Dough Roller that struggled with staffing in 2020 and 2021 had the unique challenge of having too many employees during some day shifts this summer.

Resort still struggling with bus, tram staffing

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer (Aug. 12, 2022) Ocean City public transportation has boomed with riders this season but staffing shortages and equipment struggles have significantly limited the rewards that could have been received.

Since as far back as the start of the pandemic, resort officials have struggled to recruit employees to drive and run buses and trams. While the numbers have gradually improved over the last two summers, they have not risen quickly enough to accommodate the increase in ridership, which has created friction in both divisions this year.

At a Transportation Committee Tuesday, staff members shared data that shows bus ridership numbers, while not as high as pre-pandemic 2019, are on par to exceed those calculated in 2020 and 2021.

The uptick has been brewing since the beginning of the summer and created strains on the drivers to the point that they threatened to strike before the Fourth of July in an effort to get higher pay and more help. But even after council members raised the hourly rates, the employee numbers bumped up only slightly, and staff members said Tuesday that they have not budged since July 4.

The shortages have resulted in fewer deployments, which, coupled with some of the resort’s larger articulating buses being out of service for a while, has resulted in some pretty big challenges.

“It’s not a good scenario, down in ‘artics,’ down in deploys, down in staffing and up in riders,” Councilman and Transportation Committee Member Tony DeLuca said during Tuesday’s See RIDERSHIP Page 6

MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY An Ocean City bus driver prepares to load passengers at the main terminal downtown near the inlet on a recent summer morning.

12207 Coastal Hwy. Suite D • Ocean City, MD 21842 • 410-524-1203 NANCY REITHER-SMITH

Realtor® • Licensed in MD & DE Office: 410-524-1203 Direct: 410-723-8574 / Cell: 410-603-5050 Email: nreither@cbmove.com #1 AGENT COLDWELL BANKER Realty 2021

Sales Volume, Listings & Closed Units Ocean City and DE Beaches

#1 LISTING AGENT FOR COLDWELL BANKER REALTY MID ATLANTIC REGION

OCEAN BLOCK OPEN HOUSE • SUN, 11AM-1PM

12 92ND STREET UNIT 303 OCEAN CITY $724,900

3BR/2.5BA Ocean Block property has ocean views from all the bedrooms, kitchen, dining, and family room! In a midrise masonry building w/a rooftop pool, exercise area, and storage locker. It was used only as a family vacation home; well-maintained. Spacious family room w/gas fireplace opening to kitchen and dining area. Kitchen has plenty of counter and cabinet space, a breakfast bar, ss appliances, and tile flooring. There is a large balcony off the family room. Primary bedroom is at the opposite end of the condo and has an upgraded bath and custom shower. There is a separate utility room and half bath as well. Sold furnished. Covered parking under the building. Located near shops and restaurants. Come take a look today before it's sold! MLS MDWO2009364

HERON HARBOUR OPEN HOUSE • FRI, 2-5PM

305 S HERON GULL CT OCEAN CITY $2,699,900

Stunning coastal custom recently renovated 6BR/6BA/2HBA waterfront estate. Property features exceptional craftsmanship. Firstfloor primary bedroom overlooks the water and has a luxurious master bath. Spacious kitchen features granite countertops, two sinks, high end appliances, and upgraded cabinets. Dining area is off the kitchen and overlooks the water. Family room is off the dining room and also overlooks the water. Family room has 22-foot ceilings and a gas fireplace making it the perfect place for y/r enjoyment. There is a sunroom or office area off the front of the house which could also be used as a separate dining room. On the third floor you will find a movie theater room w/kitchen. You will enjoy watching the boats go by and the breathtaking bay views and sunsets. Additional enhancements include upgraded lighting and flooring, 2- 75-gallon water heaters and 3 zone heating and air conditioning. Enjoy outdoor living w/extensive composite multi-level decks. There is a private pier w/a deep-water dock, 10,000 lb. boat lift, two jet ski lifts, a davit hoist and vinyl bulkhead. Home was professionally landscaped and has an irrigation system. This estate offers a fabulous open floor plan that maximizes spectacular views. A short distance to the beach, shops and restaurants. Boasting over 5200Sqft, this home is in the amenity rich community of Heron Harbour. The community amenities include an indoor heated pool, outdoor family pool, Olympic size lap pool, kiddie pool, fitness center, library, social room and two lighted clay tennis courts. This is more than a luxurious home, it's a wonderful lifestyle. MLS MDWO2008958 BERLIN

6226 KNOLL HILL DRIVE • BERLIN, MD • $1,065,000

This stunning 4BR/4BA home has OPEN WATER VIEWS and is in a wonderful neighborhood. A recently renovated Cape Cod w/a spacious backyard off South Point Road in Berlin, overlooks the water and Assateague Island. Home has open floor plan and an abundance of natural light. You will love the character of the hardwood floors, the upgraded baths and the lighting. There is an enormous composite deck in the back, 2-car garage, and storage area. 1.5 miles from Ocean City Golf Club, 1.5 miles from the Public Boat Ramp, 2.4 miles from Rum Point Golf Course, 6 miles from Assateague Island, 8.5 miles from Ocean City Airport, 9.4 miles from Sunset Marina and 10.5 miles from the Ocean City Boardwalk. Schedule your showing today and consider making this dream home yours! MLS MDWO2007874

OCEAN CITY OPEN HOUSE • FRI, 2-4PM & SAT, 1:30-3:30PM

WEST OC WITH BOAT SLIP OPEN HOUSE • MON, 10AM-12PM

13031 HAYES AVE #2704 OCEAN CITY • $595,900

3BR/2BA/1HBA end unit townhome sold fully furnished w/a boat slip at Townes of Nantucket. There's a large outdoor deck for outdoor dining w/a shade awning. Exceptionally wide boat slip is directly off the back deck. The 1st level of the home also has a half bath. On the 2nd level you will find the primary bedroom and bath and spacious walk-in closets. There are two additional bedrooms on the 2nd level, a second bath, and a pull-down attic offering plenty of storage. Next to the townhome is community space with benches. . MLS MDWO2009394

13009 BOWLINE LN #3 OCEAN CITY • $799,900

Stunning 4BR/3.5BA end unit townhome in West Ocean City w/boat slip 65 in Seaside Village! This spacious townhome faces the Ocean City skyline and has beautiful bay views! Kitchen has granite countertops, and breakfast area has a slider to a beautiful deck. Dining area flows nicely off the kitchen. Oversized family room flows off dining area. There is also a balcony off the family room. On the next level you will find the primary suite w/full bath and walk-in closets. 2 additional bedrooms on this level as well as a full bath and full laundry. Spacious multipurpose flex room w/patio access. Large garage and additional storage space. Seaside Village has a community center w/an outdoor pool. Convenient to Ocean City Boardwalk, outlets, restaurants, and Assateague Island. Marina is very well kept and provides easy access to the bay and inlet. Slip is large, and they allow lifts to be added. This would make an ideal home, a 2nd home or vacation rental. Have it all with a well-run condo association and without the upkeep of a single-family home. MLS MDWO2007716

COMMERCIAL COMMERCIAL COMMERCIAL BAYSIDE

424 LARK LANE E303 OCEAN CITY • $269,900

2BR/1BA condo located close to the boardwalk and is in great condition. You will fall in love w/the open floor plan. Family room is perfect for entertaining, and the large dining room is directly off the family room. The well-equipped kitchen flows off the dining room. The chef in your family will love the kitchen. Everyone will enjoy eating in as much as eating out! The condo has a W/D in the unit. The unit was also recently updated w/a mini split heating and AC system and new flooring throughout. Currently being used as an Airbnb and the rental income is amazing. Being sold furnished. Move-in ready. Close to restaurants, shops, Jolly Roger, the boardwalk, and beach. Complex has a large outdoor pool. Come take a look today before it's SOLD. MLS MDWO2008054

LAND INVESTOR ALERT!!!

10863 CATHELL RD BERLIN • $999,900

Priced below recent appraisal of $1,150,000. This is the one you have been waiting for! TWENTY-ONE acres, w/a farmhouse home, and vacation cabins for seasonal use and detached garage. Located minutes from the beaches and Ocean Pines. Property has unlimited potential and backs up to Rt 90. Each of the spacious cabins has been updated and property is turnkey w/all the furnishings, fully equipped kitchens. Projected rental income on the seasonal cabins is $75,000 as an Airbnb. There is also a detached garage w/endless possibility. Would make a great Wedding Venue, riding stables, or possible subdivision. Seller is looking for a quick sale and has priced to sell. Offered at $1,199,900 AS IS. Come take a look today before it's SOLD! MLS MDWO2007208 BERLIN OPEN HOUSE • SAT, 10AM-12PM

333 WALNUT HILL DRIVE BERLIN • $550,000

Stunning home in "America's Coolest Town." Renovated and freshly painted; You will love the abundance of light and outdoor space. Lg family room off dining area; chefstyle kitchen. (1) 1st level BR/(2) 2nd level BRs. 1st floor has lg multipurpose and laundry room. Outdoor space is inviting w/a wraparound deck, front porch and screened in porch. Fenced in backyard and single detached garage. Located a walkable distance to restaurants and shops in downtown Berlin. You will enjoy the small town feel and way of living. Home is situated on a quiet circular street, has small town charm, and curb appeal. Come take a look today! MLS MDWO2008956

LAND LAND LAND

WORCESTER HWY BISHOPVILLE, MD $270,000

Prime 3.61 Acres Property hits the market! It's all out the location & visibility w/high traffic density. Conveniently located on Route 113 & Hamond Road. It is diagonally across from the former Emings BBQ. Owner financing is available w/acceptable contract. Come take a look today before it's SOLD! Possibilities are endless. MLS MDWO113680

34862 WEST LINE RD SELBYVILLE, DE $2,099,000

Commercial Site in Prime Location hits the Market! 2.36 acres on the corner of RT 54 and W. Line Rd in Selbyville DE. This location is directly across from Yellowfins Restaurant and shopping center on heavily traveled Rt 54. The location is approximately 3-4 miles to the beaches of Ocean City & Fenwick Island. It has water and 8' sewer main that will supply a hotel, shopping center, office complex, medical center, professional center, etc. Lot is cleared. Buy it Now Before It's SOLD!!! Owner Financing is available. MLS DESU184528

13010 WORCESTER HWY BISHOPVILLE $370,000

Are you looking for that commercial piece with high visibility? Look no further this commercial tract is 14.33 acres on the corner of Route 113 and Route 610 across from Emings BBQ. This is your opportunity to establish a foothold in this increasingly desirable area on the Eastern Shore. The possibilities are endless! Come take a look today before it's SOLD! MLS MDWO113678

10613 LOT 264 SIREN LN BERLIN, MD $249,900

SELLER MOTIVATED FOR A QUICK SALE!!! POSSIBLE OWNER FINANCING AVAIABLE. STOP! COME WALK THE LOT and look at the beautiful views!!! Build your dream house at Lot 264 Siren Lane in Glen Riddle. This lot is 11,169 sq. Ft. And is on the corner with water views. This lot will accommodate a large home. The seller has already cleared the ditches and filled in the top of the lot. Pick your builder and enjoy your custom home for years to come! Located in the amenity rich community of Glen Riddle. Enjoy the outdoor pool, tennis, fitness center, marina, and Ruth Chris restaurant! Enjoy Kayaking and if you’re a boater buy a slip when one comes available. You must own property in Glen Riddle to be eligible when a slip becomes available. Possible owner financing available. MLS MDWO2009434

36455 DUPONT BLVD SELBYVILLE, DE $2,275,000

Spectacular 35 +/- acre farm located on corner of Rt. 113 (Dupont Blvd) and McCabe Road. The property provides both commercial and agricultural zoned land, outside the corporate limits of Selbyville. W/approximately 1165 ft on Route 113 and corner location and railroad running at the back side of the land, your opportunities are endless. Property is improved w/an office building, storage shed/ equipment shed, pond and a septic system that was originally installed for a new home to be built to overlook the pond. There is town of Selbyville water, but no central sewer, only private septic. Land is currently farmed. About 13 miles to beach. One of the very few large tracts of land available for sale in our marketplace. MLS DESU2020768

GEORGETOWN ROAD BERLIN • $160,000

Build your dream house! If you are looking for some acreage look no further, this property is 3.016 acres. This property is just off Route 113 and close to Berlin, America's coolest small town. The property is conveniently located near Ocean City Beaches and Assateague Island. Survey has been done and soil samples are completed. No HOA to worry about let's start the process and get exactly what you want in a home. MLS MDWO2009248

1303 MCHENRY CT BERLIN, MD $159,000

Why not build? There's nothing like building the house of your dreams! Large cul-de-sac (11,566 Sqft.) home site in the very desirable Colonial Village location in Ocean Pines. Close to the Yacht Club, Yacht club pool and marina and Mumford's Landing Pool, and located only a few miles from Ocean City’s famous beaches. Ocean Pines is an amenity rich community w/restaurants, shops, tennis, recreational facilities, golf, ball fields, pickleball courts, basketball court, playground, 12 parks, 6 trails, indoor and outdoor pools, 2 marinas, beachfront beach club at 49th Street in Ocean City, and the farmer's market. There is also police protection, fire protection and excellent management. MLS MDWO2008616

5BR/4BA WITH 118FT OF WATERFRONT

38779 LINCOLN AVE SELBYVILLE, DE $1,525,000

This custom-built Coastal Global Luxury home has it all. One of the largest waterfront lots w/118ft of water frontage; located minutes from Fenwick and Ocean City beaches. 1st level game room w/pool/ping pong table. There is also a 1st level BR/BA, office w/beverage center, and oversized covered deck plus composite deck. 2nd floor has a custom chef's kitchen w/granite countertops, breakfast bar, Viking refrigerator & gas stove, and beverage center. Dining area flows off the kitchen into spacious family room w/custom woodworking, gas fireplace, dramatic ceilings, and shiplap walls. Off the dining area is a second deck. On the 3rd level you will find a luxurious primary suite that opens to a 3-seasons room overlooking the water. There is also a small craft room, 1-car garage, outside custom teak shower, and plenty of parking. Community has a pool and boat trailer storage. Ideal location to restaurants, stores, and beaches. There is room for multiple boats, jet skis, and possibly a pool. Sold fully furnished. Come take a look today! MLS ESU2023778 SEA WATCH

11500 COASTAL HWY #1701 OCEAN CITY, MD $644,900

Upgraded 2BR/2BA condo w/ocean views. Expanded kitchen w/custom cabinets, granite countertops, breakfast bar, and ss appliances. Family room w/ glass slider opens to lg oceanfront deck. Primary bedroom also has slider to deck. Custom rain shower in Primary bath. Spacious 2nd bedroom w/custom built ins. Laundry has been upgraded w/storage cabinets, W/D, sink, shelving, and custom floor coating. Would make a perfect vacation home or rental. Sold fully furnished. Sea Watch has world class amenities, including an outdoor/indoor pool, sundeck, fitness center, indoor theater, and on-site management w/parking garage and security. Come take a look before it's sold. MLS MDWO2008200 OCEAN FRONT

6803 ATLANTIC AVE UNIT 1F OCEAN CITY $364,900

Stunning 1BR/1BA DIRECT OCEAN FRONT condo. You will love the lg private balcony overlooking the pool and ocean. This condo is very large for a 1BR boasting 756 sq ft. There is a lg bedroom, family room and dining room that flows to the kitchen – open floor plan. This condo is in midtown Ocean City in the desirable building of Beach Loft. This is an elevated building, and it is very well maintained and has an elevator, an outdoor pool and storage. The condo is being sold furnished and is ready for your immediate enjoyment. Cable is included in the condo fee. Come take a look today before it's SOLD! MLS MDWO2008614 BAYSIDE

506 32ND STREET #3 OCEAN CITY $369,900

Direct Bay front 2BR/1.5BA condo on 32nd St. w/huge 42’ boat slip that will accommodate a very large boat or two boats or jet skis. Condo has an updated boat theme. Updated kitchen w/white cabinets and clear view of the bay; off the kitchen is a spacious deck that also overlooks the bay. 1st level stackable w/d. On the 2nd floor you will find (2) BRs, one of which overlooks the bay. At night you will enjoy looking at all the lights from the Ocean City skyline and the boats as they go by. Whether you're into boating, jet skiing, kayaking, fishing, or crabbing, this is a terrific home in an awesome location. You are close to the world-famous Ocean City boardwalk, Jolly Roger amusement park, many restaurants, and shops. There is also a community pool, making this is the perfect all-around Ocean City home. The condo is being sold fully furnished. Come take a look today before it’s Sold! MLS MDWO2009024 BAYSIDE

414 LARK LANE D304 OCEAN CITY $269,900

2BR/1BA condo located close to the boardwalk and is in great condition. You will fall in love w/the open floor plan. Family room is perfect for entertaining, and the large dining room is directly off the family room. The well-equipped kitchen flows off the dining room. The chef in your family will love the updated cabinets and granite countertops. Everyone will enjoy eating in as much as eating out! The condo has a W/D in the unit. The unit was also recently updated w/a mini split heating and AC system and new flooring throughout. Currently being used as an Airbnb and the rental income is amazing. Being sold furnished. Move-in ready. Close to restaurants, shops, Jolly Roger, the boardwalk, and beach. Complex has a large outdoor pool. Come take a look today before it's SOLD. MLS MDWO2007984