Staff shortage, not COVID restrictions, now holding back some restaurants

ELLICOTT CITY, Md. — “It’s enabling to have more control over our own future,” said Mark Hemmis.

For nearly his entire time owning Phoenix Upper Main in Old Ellicott City, Hemmis hasn’t been able to be in control.

He bought the building last year, moving his business up Main Street because of the county’s flood mitigation plan.