Any new owner will have to restore it to Coast Guard (passenger vessel) standards, Pollitt said. that is degrading to another person. Snow Hill discusses bringing boat contractors to assess damage and give estimates on repairing the Black Eyed Susan Riverboat, which remains docked in Snow Hill. Bunting also referenced the repairs the boat needed and the fact that its kitchen would have to be approved by the health department. Black-eyed Susan | Description & Facts | Britannica 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6,Ocean City,MD, Black eye: Riverboat drama continues to dog Snow Hill, Ocean City Council denies Deja Vu adult store name change, Ocean City Council advances fare increases, Boardwalk bike rule change, more, Driver in Ocean City rollover wreck could be charged with DUI, Request for air rights over Ocean Citys Majestic Hotel headed to first reading, Ocean City breaks ground on Downtown Recreation Complex renovation, Worcester County licensing board roasts Toasts requests, New study: Stop drinking sugary drinks in Baltimore. The Worcester County Commissioners last week told Worcester County Public Schools leadership that they wanted more details regarding the school systems $131 million budget. Notifications from this discussion will be disabled. Will they find balance in blue crab domain? All this occurred after the town sweated it out with Leonardtown to even purchase the boat in 2020. Everybody is on board if it makes sense, he said. If we dont make a decision today we are going to lose this opportunity and if we lose it we may never get it again. Ideally, wed sell it before the end of this fiscal year (at the end of June) so we dont have a budget item for this moving forward.. We just didnt have ($600,000 to spend on it). Citing rising costs, supply chain issues and new emission standards, Fire Chief Richie Bowers said, SNOW HILL School system officials say theyre in the process of providing Worcester County government with budget details. - Save your favorite articles -- A decision regarding the fate of the Black Eyed Susan riverboat is expected to be made at a town council meeting tonight, January 10th. SNOW HILL, Md. Open House Provides Close Look At Snow Hill's New Riverboat In the weeks since, the boat has stayed busy with between one and three trips a week. Last spring, the 149-passenger, 111-foot vessel tallied a more than $300,000 bill for repairs ordered by the U.S. Coast Guard as part of a five-year routine inspection. Threats of harming another Black-Eyed Susan riverboat: Partial repairs OK'd to make it Snow Hill 'tourist attraction', Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy. I dont know if anything will come of it but thats the sort of thing Id like love to see take place to save the boat, Pollitt said. Repairs were estimated at more than $600,000, a price tag outside the town budgetarymeans. Town Council members voted 2-1 Tuesday night in favor of committing torepairs that would allow the stern-wheel paddleboat to stay in service at a reduced capacity while officials seek additional funding for a full restoration. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. OCEAN CITY Officials say the formation of a task force could address concerns relating to a proposed sports complex. Snow Hill's Black-Eyed Susan riverboat to undergo partial repairs This is something that could revitalize the downtown of not one but two towns in the southern end of the county, he said. Snow Hill, for the first time in probably 15 years, the mayor, the council, every department head, love respect and nurture each other every day. In the weeks since, the boat has stayed busy with between one and three trips a week. The town has gained a major attraction, the famous Black Eyed Susan Riverboat. Were looking at a right away time frame (for selling the boat), said Town Manager Rick Pollitt last week. Low near 50F. The Black Eyed Susan 5 reviews Unclaimed Boat Charters Closed See hours See all 21 photos Write a review Add photo Location & Hours Suggest an edit 2600 Boston St Baltimore, MD 21224 Canton Get directions You Might Also Consider Sponsored South River Boat Rentals 32 22.3 miles away from The Black Eyed Susan Michael O. said "It's perfect! A graduate of Stephen Decatur High School and the University of Richmond, she spent seven years with the Delmarva Media Group before joining the team at The Dispatch. The boat will come out of the water to get cleaned up for the coming season after Christmas and is expected to resume cruises in the spring. Jamie Alvarenga is a writer and editor who loves all things Maryland. When he asked Weber whether the boat had been making many trips and whether it was usually full of passengers, Weber said he didnt know. The Black-Eyed Susan (Havre de Grace) - Tripadvisor The boat handles very well, said Jim Washington, the riverboats operator. Less than eight months after the much-anticipated 111-foot paddlewheel took its maiden voyage as the Town of Snow Hill's new marquee attraction, the United States Coast Guard has thrown a bucket of cold water on the town's 2022 ambitions. THE BLACK EYED SUSAN - 21 Photos - Yelp We are a tourist attraction, he said. Doctor Explains, Golf event celebrates Macky's bartender, 'the JUTT'. On Tuesday, the Mayor and Council had before them a proposal to implement a property tax credit for active volunteer firefighters. Impending Decision on the Black Eyed Susan Riverboat, Rt. When Bertino asked how many trips the boat would take to make money, Weber said the ticket cost would depend on what type of trip was offered. Itll be nice to take a ride on the boat myself. Come this spring, that boat will be a new addition to the Pocomoke River. The boat was first purchased in 2020 using a combination of grant money and loans fromthe county and state. Charlene Sharpe has been with The Dispatch since 2014. The meal was excellent and the river cruise was interesting with . There were several things that we didnt have planned but got taken care of. Jun 2012 Couples. We added things that didnt get completed (earlier in the process), former Snow Hill Town Manager Gary Weber said. The boat seems to be in good running order.. "I would love to have some notion as to where we're headed with the cost of this boat as we prepare for our new budget.". We offer three decks, two of which are heated/air conditioned and the top deck is open air. Its an asset, its an economic draw.. . Riverboat in Worcester County Has Uncertain Future Were told the boat will hold cruises along the Pocomoke River, in hopes of bringing more tourism and business to the area. Then check out this old fashioned paddle boat cruise where you can sight-see this amazing area right from the water. Register today to take advantage of these benefits and more! The mayor and council have been truly wonderful, both administrations, Washington said. that is degrading to another person. In addition to the recommended repairs, we put in all new plexiglass on the second level, painted the floor, got rid of the old nasty peel-and-stick carpet. The Black-Eyed Susan, the 149-seat riverboat purchased in 2020 with a loan from Worcester County, has been at Murtech Marine in Salisbury since the fall undergoing repairs. (Im) hoping that people come down for the Black-Eyed Susan but stay for all the other shops and restaurants in Snow Hill, Jewell said. The town of Snow Hill will have to wait for its famed riverboat, the Black-Eyed Susan, to return to its home port as it will undergo much-needed repairs. 03/30/2022 | Riverboat Awaits Repairs, Season On Hold | News Ocean City MD People with good intentions were blindsided by this whole mess, he said. They love our food, said Washington, who also operates a catering business. Passengers can also take lunch cruises or set up private charters. If that's the case, Pruitt said he'd like to have an idea of who's buying the boat within the next few months. Its separated, just like a regular boat with twin screws, Weber said. I did the lunch cruise on a rainy day but found nothing but sunshine from the crew of the Black Eye Susan. Right now we plan to resume May 1, Washington said. The "Black-Eyed Susan" riverboat has gone through $300,000 dollars of repairs. Theres other people that could probably use this money.. Black Eyed Susan upgraded | News | oceancitytoday.com City Manager Terry McGean said the loss of revenue to the town would. Perlozzo said the riverboat was a unique opportunity to promote the southern end of the county as a tourism destination. Tuesday's meeting was to discuss the idea of the Mayor bringing in contractors to assess damages. Higher wind gusts possible. Be Truthful. There was a problem saving your notification. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism On Tuesday, the council voted 6-1, with Councilman John Gehrig opposed, to approve a request for two new replacement engines. SNOW HILL Seats are filling quickly on Snow Hills new riverboat. Chance of rain 80%. Seeing this vessel docked in our little town evokes momentous emotion and provides hope that Snow Hill will continue to prosper. Voyages started in August. each comment to let us know of abusive posts. On Tuesday, the Mayor and Council had before them a proposal to implement a property tax credit for active volunteer firefighters. "We are sorry to inform you that. The Worcester County Commissioners last week told Worcester County Public Schools leadership that they wanted more details regarding the school systems $131 million budget. PLUS get FREE stuff! State and county officials attended a. Snow Hill's Black-Eyed Susan riverboat will undergopartial repairs. Don't knowingly lie about anyone "global": { The Black Eyed Susan isnt the only unforgettable tour in the Old Line State! Sign Up for the Daily Buzz E-News to receive the latest news around the area delivered to your inbox. - Submit classified ads Mayor Pruitt asked several captains and financial advisors for their input on maintenance costs, and they each came back with an estimate of roughly $100,000 a year. Are you a lover of Marylands Northeastern region particularly Havre de Grace? Its just not something that the taxpayers of Snow Hill can afford to carry.. "There's three different factions, probably shouldn't name them yet, but there are three separate factions that have shown some interest in taking this boat off our hands," said Pruitt. Voyages started in August 2021 with Washington'sInc. as the operator responsible for catered cruises along the Pocomoke River. On Tuesday, the council voted 6-1, with Councilman John Gehrig opposed, to approve a request for two new replacement engines. We'd love to hear eyewitness You will receive your first email soon. Even after the boat is repaired, it would cost a good chunk of change to maintain. Soon people will be able to cruise along the Pocomoke River enjoying food, entertainment, happy hour cruises and even guest chef evenings. Snow Hill's "Black-Eyed Susan" Riverboat Under Discussion According to Snow Hill's town manager, Rick Pollitt, even keeping the boat afloat, while it sits unused, is costing the town money. The Black-Eyed Susan, the Town of Snow Hill's riverboat, hosted its first guests in mid-August. Don't knowingly lie about anyone . People interestedin booking tickets for one of the scheduled cocktail, lunch and dinner cruises or in scheduling a private tour on the river boat can do so online at https://bes-snowhill.com/. Will they find balance in blue crab domain? Slight chance of a shower throughout the evening. each comment to let us know of abusive posts. Mayor Susan Marshall Harrison said the city was very interested. Hello, adventurers! The boat is staffed by a captain, two mates, three servers, two bartenders and Washington and his daughter. (Oct. 16, 2020) Snow Hill is officially the owner of the Black Eyed Susan, a 111-foot paddle wheel boat. Todd Ferrante, president of the Worcester County Board of Education, said this, OCEAN CITY Officials in Ocean City this week agreed to proceed with a property tax credit for active volunteer firefighters. Lord knows who else youre affecting by doing this. Be Nice. Tags Maryland Worcester County. Hes adding more dates, however, as soon as he confirms hes got a captain lined up. The Black Eyed Susan riverboats long and arduous journey to Snow Hill will conclude on Monday. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 80%. We hope that it is does exactly what our anticipation is, and were just so excited to bring people here and ride our beautiful Black Eyed Susan, says Outten-Harrison. Partly cloudy skies during the morning hours will become overcast in the afternoon. Black Eyed Susan boat finally paddling home, 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6,Ocean City,MD, Ocean City Council denies Deja Vu adult store name change, Ocean City Council advances fare increases, Boardwalk bike rule change, more, Driver in Ocean City rollover wreck could be charged with DUI, Request for air rights over Ocean Citys Majestic Hotel headed to first reading, Ocean City breaks ground on Downtown Recreation Complex renovation, Worcester County licensing board roasts Toasts requests, New study: Stop drinking sugary drinks in Baltimore. Dont get me wrong. That price tag is why at tonight's meeting, the towns mayor, Michael Pruitt, is going to seek permission to sell it. "We all want it to be successful at this point. "We found that it's just going to be an astronomical number, that is far beyond the means of our small town to pay and to expect our taxpayers to pay," said Pollitt. Voyages started in August 2021 with Washington'sInc. as the operator responsible for catered cruises along the Pocomoke River. Weber, citing his success with the Blue Dog Caf, said he was confident that it would prove profitable. The fate of Snow Hills woebegone Black Eyed Susan riverboat has yet to be decided, but one thing is certain it wont be an anchor around the necks of the towns taxpayers much longer. States Sports Complex Study Reviewed; Potential Task Force Eyed To Move Forward, Ocean City Council Approves $1.9M Fire Engine Purchase, Worcester BOE Working With County On Budget, OC Council Approves Property Tax Credit For Vol. The Black-Eyed Susan, the 149-seat riverboat purchased in 2020 with a loan from Worcester County, has been at Murtech Marine in Salisbury since the fall undergoing repairs. You have permission to edit this article. On Thursday, the Mayor and Council hosted the Maryland Stadium Authority (MSA) at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center to review a market and economic analysis update for a proposed sports complex next to Stephen, OCEAN CITY Resort officials this week approved a request for two new fire engines totaling more than $1.9 million. SNOW HILL Town of Snow Hill officials voted this week to proceed with repairs to the Black-Eyed Susan. There have been a lot of people involved in getting the boat to Snow Hill and Worcester County, Weber said. He said it would bring dozens of jobs for those in the restaurant business as well as actors and musicians. The first job on the list, Pollitt said, will be to identify someone in the boating industry to establish the riverboats value. Winds W at 10 to 20 mph. Snow Hill purchased the Black-Eyed Susan in 2020 with the help of a loan from Worcester County. Cloudy with light rain this morningthen becoming partly cloudy. More:Snow Hill celebrates 23rd Blessing of the Combines: PHOTOS, More:NFL Hall of Famer Terrell Owens is playing in Bubba Almony's Celebrity Basketball Game. The Black Eyed Susan riverboat is again out of commission. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. The rear of the Black Eyed Susan. Search, Shop & Compare low rates guaranteed. One of the things we may have missed when we acquired it is no one had experience in acquiring, preparing and maintaining a riverboat and likewise we dont have experience in selling one either, he said. 05/11/2022 | Snow Hill To Repair Riverboat | News Ocean City MD Commissioner Joe Mitrecic said he felt the county needed to take the chance on the boat. - Comment on articles - It costs you nothing! He stressed that while the repairs werent anticipated, the entire riverboat project had been undertaken to help the town. After a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Aug. 12 with around 70 other attendees, the riverboat took its maiden voyage with the town, county and state officials onboard Tuesday. More:Virginia Shore residents may start getting new telephone area code. This will help us build that. He questioned the cost of moving the boat to Snow Hill as well as preparations associated with docking it. - The town has gained a major attraction, the famous Black Eyed. PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK. At the town's request, the Coast Guard also provided an option for the riverboat to be a floating, docked venue without river cruises, the release showed,at a cost of over $300,000. Be Truthful. High 61F. This story appears in the Jan. 20, 2023 print edition of the OC Today. The company was later released from the lease agreement because the boat was not sea-worthy, as the contract required. If the decision is made to sell the boat, the hope is a private entity steps up and takes ownership of the boat, taking the costs off the backs of Snow Hill taxpayers.