now barely 500 of those are livable. it's also a drag on the region's biggest industry, tourism. at this cajun restaurant in panama city beach, the crowds are back, but keeping workers at a wage owner trudy white can afford has been the challenge. >> i mean, certain positions only pay so much money. and when you got mcdonald's offering $15, $18 an hour, i can't compete with that. >> reporter: in extreme case, some restaurants have had to shorten hours or close on certain days. but despite the slow pace of recovery, there are signs of new life here. in mexico beach, dozens of new building permits have been issued over the last several months. norah? >> fascinating to see that. manny, thank you. we'll be right back.