HARRISBURG (WSIL) -- Local business owners in Harrisburg had a chance Tuesday to voice their thoughts about reopening ahead of the governor's order.
"My license is very important to me. Like I said, I've had it since I was 19. It's my whole life, and I love my clients, and I'm missing them and they miss me," said Stephanie's Salon and Spa owner Stephanie Church.
Harrisburg business owners spoke to the city council about ways they could operate while social distancing.
"My people would be more than happy to sit in their car and wait until the next person leaves and comes in," said Church.
In an effort to reopen businesses, the city council wants business owners to send a letter with their concerns to the governor's office.
"We provide a much-needed service to the public. The stay-order has been financially devastating to our small business. We have received hundreds of requests to open," said business owner Jerry Hunt.
Some agree reopening is possible in phases.
"Certain areas that are less affected should have fewer restrictions. We're not saying a complete, immediate reopening of those areas. It's a careful, common sense approach," said State Representative Patrick Windhorst.
Others, like a local daycare owner, opposed the idea.
"I don't see a reason that we need to reopen the city. The reason I feel that way is we don't want an outbreak," said Little Angels Learning Center owner Christi Bailey.
The city council also wants to remind residents that reopening is not about going against the governor, but what's best for the city.
"We're trying to get things changed legally, correctly. We're not just trying to jump up and say, 'Okay! Everybody come!' Because we understand," said Harrisburg city councilman Roger Angelly.
"Us having this meeting, we have the governor's ear, and I think he's going to listen to what we have to say," said Harrisburg Mayor John McPeek.
The owners of Southern Outlaws Bar and Grill in Harrisburg announced on the restaurant's Facebook page they will not re-open once the pandemic ends.
They say it was a difficult decision and thanked their guests and staff.
