Marion County Courthouse Rises From the Rampage

It took hundreds of people, several months, and a countless amount of cooperation between government agencies to help Marion County exist after its courthouse was the scene of a criminal rampage last November.

Christopher Millis is charged with the damaging rampage at the Marion County Courthouse last November Photo by: Tim King

(SALEM) - After months of rebuilding and renovation, the Marion County Courthouse will once again be open to the public beginning Monday, July 3rd.

Offices that will open in the basement and on the first floor include the Court Administrator's Office and the Sheriff's Office.

The courthouse saga began after a November 12th incident caused extensive damage and scattered nearly 200 people to alternative locations to conduct public business while repairs are being done.

Keizer resident Christopher Millis is accused of driving his pickup through the front doors of the courthouse, firing shots and starting fires, Marion County officials say everyone underestimated the amount of work, time, and money it would take.

While employees of the state courts and the county were out of the building in alternative locations, the county also decided to make some improvements such as replacing plumbing that is at the end of its useful life, upgrading electrical and ventilation systems, repairing leaking roofs and windows, and installing barriers to prevent future incidents.

Renovation of other offices and the upper floors should be completed and the whole building open to the public by the end of July.

The courthouse will be closed for the July 4th holiday as will other county offices and open for the rest of the business week.

Related articles on Salem-News.com:

Marion County Courthouse Repair Costs Now at $12 Million Dollars: salem-news.com/articles/march142006/Courthouse_Update_31406.php Marion County Courthouse Nearing Completion of Rebuild: salem-news.com/articles/june12006/Courthouse_Repairs_6106.php

Courthouse Restoration Progressing: salem-news.com/articles/june122006/Courthouse_Update_61206.php