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Commissioners Grapple For Fix With Leaking Salem Courthouse

Last updated on Monday, July 14, 2014

(SALEM) - The Washington County Commissioners are dealing with a dilemma - the courthouse roof is still leaking after a new roof and work on the limestone block exterior was completed.

The Salem Leader reports that Tom Scifres, attorney for the county, has been meeting with contractors T & G Construction who had the contract for the roof and BJB who did the exterior limestone work to solve the problem.

The county has paid out more than $204,200 for the roof and another $142,700 for repairs to the exterior stonework.

Ron Stiller, RCS Associates and Tom Johnson, with Keystone Restoration, professionals who both deal with historic structures, met with the county commissioners to discuss what they found when they examined the building.

Remedial work is needed on portions of the roof. Flashing that was used was the wrong size and didn't fit properly and capping stones resting on top that are not secured and some of the ridge caps were not cut straight. Stiller mentioned that the limestone blocks are lined on the inside with brick, which also needs work. There were also some questions on if the right type of mortar was used to repair the limestone block exterior.

Stiller says the building also has some infrastructure issues. He suggested having the building assessed, adding there is money available through the state for that and also matching money may be available.

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