Coronavirus Impacts Clinton County Businesses
From staff reports
LOCK HAVEN – Even in the relative early stages of the coronavirus being detected in Pennsylvania, Clinton County businesses are already feeling a dramatic impact.
From non-essential businesses closing to restaurants either closed or offering only take out to florists that can’t deliver to hospitals or nursing homes, the virus has made its mark with no immediate end in sight.
The Clinton County Economic Partnership recently surveyed its members that are being impacted, and approximately 40 businesses returned a form. Some of the numbers and comments are startling in a “snap shot” review.
Susquehanna Transit reports that it has or will lose approximately $973,000 in revenue because of the virtual shutdown. Hundreds of trips have been cancelled and high school bus routes are on hold, as well as university athletic trips.
“These revenue losses are not sustainable,” said Cam Kephart of Susquehanna. “We are optimistic that the schools will return to normal and we can try to recoup some of the losses of work, and have revenue for all.”
Fairfield by Marriott, as other local hotels, has taken a big hit to date. Fairfield reports almost $60,000 in lost revenue for March, $24,165 in cancellations for April, and over $18,000 for May. That May number could go up another $12,000 because of graduation cancellations. Already 15 employees have been laid off.
Need a Place to Go and Quiet Oaks Campground near Cross Fork are both feeling the virus impact.
Dave Flack said the portable toilet business is down 75% in March. It has been difficult to get supplies like hand sanitizers and toilet paper. Many contractor jobs have been put on hold and other projects are just postponed. The campground remains open but has had 100% cancellation through April 5. So far, there have been no cancellations for fishing season.
“We operate by paying our bills ahead to March,” said Flack. “This uses most of our capital. Any further extension is crushing as we cannot continue to operate with no income. The small business loan seems to be our only hope. Creditors are helping a little but fuel bills and electric are getting tough to handle.”
Other notes from the survey include a rental property business stating “lost work and economic issues will effect rent payments” and a one-person shop saying, “I have bills to be paid and I have very limited income coming in right now.”
“The numbers are already staggering and the impact on the businesses and employees are obviously going to be significant as we move along,” said Partnership President Mike Flanagan. “We can only hope that we get back to normal soon enough.”
Possible assistance areas for impacted businesses can be found on the Partnership’s website at www.clintoncountyinfo.com
