Sandusky supports Goodtime's return efforts

SANDUSKY — Can the local government save a sinking ship drowning in debt? On Friday, Sandusky officials announced a plan in which they're throwing a proverbial lifesaver to help the Goodtime I, capsized by a crippling cash flow situation. Representatives from the city government and the ferryboat "have met on various occasions to discuss the result of the Goodtime I's mandatory dry dock inspection," according to a joint statement. A dry dock inspection is when a vessel is taken out of the water for a thorough examination. The Goodtime's most recent inspection, this past spring, revealed it can't re-enter waters to carry passengers until making $350,000 worth of necessary enhancements. An announcement coming in May from Goodtime operators indicated the boat wouldn't operate, in its current state, going forward. So here's where Sandusky steps in and, eventually, fills a void. "Both the city and owners of the Goodtime I have agreed to a grant of up to $100,000 in which the city of Sandusky will provide the last money necessary to make the Save the Goodtime I campaign a success," the statement read. In other words, once the fundraising amount totals $250,000, that's when Sandusky will cut a check, shipping these public funds into the Goodtime I's bank account. Today the amount secured so far totals about $90,000. The action still requires a formal vote by commissioners, but, at this point, it just seems like a formality. Speaking up Two major players taking part in these negotiations, one on each side, publicly commented on the matter: • Sandusky ex officio mayor Dick Brady: Joe (Lamb) came to us early on and kept us updated regarding the situation with the Goodtime I. The city was able to forgive dock rent starting in 2020 and 2021 as a means to offset the impact of the pandemic, however, as talks of federal stimulus dollars progressed, it was clear the city could do even more. This is a decision that will be acted upon by a vote of the commission. I believe that there is majority support for this action. • Goodtime I owner and operator Joe Lamb: I am extremely humbled and overwhelmed by the support of not only the community but everyone from across the country that are willing to help because of how much the Goodtime means to them. Now, with the willing support of the city of Sandusky, we are starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel but still have a ways to go. I cannot express my gratitude enough to everyone, and especially the city, for their support of wanting to keep this vessel here where she belongs. Meeting the conditions Among the conditions the Goodtime I agreed to in obtaining these public funds, it must: • Fulfill its lease obligation at Jackson Street Pier in 2022; The amount totals about $15,000. • Create a sustainable business plan to show financial solvency and sustainability; The Erie County Economic Development Corp. has agreed to help put this business plan together. • Agree to a partnership with the city's recreation department for occasional programming events aboard the boat; This partnership aims to create more opportunities for younger people to get on the water. So long as the Goodtime does this, it can return to also offering its bevy of trips: the Friday Night Party, Sunset Bay and Daytime Island Hopping cruises, among others. But one question looms: When could the Goodtime I return to Lake Erie? "We have a lofty goal in returning the boat to Sandusky by July 4," Brady said. "We hope that the city's partnership and willingness to help will ignite more people to provide support for this business. We can save this summer season, not just for the Goodtime I, but for the benefit of our community and our guests."