By Mike Baker

Beginning June 30, Haliburton residents will be able to schedule haircuts, get their nails done and hang out with up to 25 friends outdoors as Ontario moves into Step 2 of its latest ‘Roadmap to Reopen’.

Public health restrictions will loosen as of 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, June 30. With the move, indoor gatherings with people outside of your immediate household will be allowed for the first time in months, with up to five people permitted to gather.

There are numerous changes to retail, dining and indoor services. Essential retail stores can open to 50 per cent capacity; non-essential retail stores can open to 25 per cent capacity; stores in shopping malls can reopen; outdoor dining expands to six people per table; public libraries can open up to 25 per cent capacity; and religious services and other ceremonies, such as weddings and funerals, can be held at 25 per cent capacity.

Recreationally, outdoor fitness classes can run providing participants remain three metres apart from one another; no-contact outdoor sports such as tennis can start up again; overnight camps will be reopened for children; outdoor water parks, fairs, festivals and amusement parks can reopen with 25 per cent capacity; and outdoor concerts, theatres, cinemas, sports facilities, horse racing and motor speedways can reopen at 25 per cent audience capacity.

Ontario will likely remain in Step 2 for the full 21 days before transitioning to Step 3, meaning the next step will be ushered in on July 21.