Waterloo Region will stay in step one of Ontario's reopening framework, as the region remains the top hot spot in Ontario for new COVID-19 cases.
With the region staying in step one, hair salons and barbershops will not be able to reopen.
However, with neighbouring communities moving into step two, Waterloo Region residents may feel the need to travel into communities with fewer restrictions for a haircut, or other purposes.
Guelph Mayor Cam Guthrie shared his concerns.
"Not just because of haircuts, but for other reasons (in terms) of that intercity mingling that might happen because we are neighbours," he said.
Guthrie mentioned he has not heard of anyone from Waterloo Region travelling into Guelph for a haircut yet, however, he reflected on the past when Ontario used the colour-coded system.
"Not just travelling from the Waterloo Region area, but also Peel Region into Guelph there was talk of buses coming into our mall from Peel Region."
So, for residents planning a trip to Guelph, Guthrie shared this message: "I would just ask ... if you're coming from different areas where there are different health issues at play, think about it a little bit before jumping into the car, or figuring out a way to get into our community or a community where that phase two to reopening has occurred."
He added although Guelph businesses will still be happy to serve customers from out-of-town, it is still important to shop local in your community.
"If there are ways you can pause, reflect, and be patient within the area that you're in and be able to support the businesses that are in your area in your own way, without it being in phase two, that's a great thing for your own community."
