Politics & Government

Putnam County Courthouse Repairs Underway

Editor's note: Putnam County Executive MaryEllen Odell released the following Tuesday afternoon, following news that a heating coil burst on the second floor of the Putnam County Courthouse Jan. 6.

The Putnam County Courthouse is expected to open for business on Thursday, January 16.

Although the Courthouse is presently under repair as a result of damage sustained during the recent period of intensely cold weather, Putnam officials have announced the facility can be safely occupied as early as Thursday morning. The County has completed its evaluation of damages and has already started the repair process.

Deputy Commissioner of Highways and Facilities John Tully spoke to concerns with the courthouse sprinkler system. 

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“The fire suppression system is currently being recharged and will be in test mode over the next 24 hours. At this time, we don’t anticipate having any issues. Assuming that remains true, the Office of Court Administration staff could occupy the building as early as Thursday morning,” Tully said. 

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The OCA has been informed of all recent developments and is comfortable in allowing staff to occupy the building once the safety components have been restored and are fully operational, including the fire suppression system.  

“I wish to thank Judge Alan Scheinkman, as well as Judge John Sweeny, Judge Lewis Lubell, Judge Victor Grossman, Judge James Rooney and Judge James Reitz and their staff for their patience and cooperation in the recovery and restoration of the courthouse,” said County Executive MaryEllen Odell. 

Therefore, until close of business on Wednesday, Jan. 15, the County, in partnership with the OCA, is utilizing nearby alternative sites for the continuation of court business. These sites include the County Office Building and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1374 on Gleneida Avenue as well as the Knights of Columbus building and Cornerstone Park on Fair Street.

The OCA has released the following phone numbers for the public who need to contact its various offices:

Supreme and County Courts — (845) 208-7854

Family Court — (845) 208-7805

Treatment Court — (845) 208-7815

IDV Court — (845) 208-7851

Commissioner of Jurors Office — (845) 208-7855

 


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