08/31/2026
Members of the Bar of the 28h Circuit and Public
Re: Closure of the Washington County Courthouse
At the request and direction of Chief and Presiding Judge Simmons and Presiding Judge Thiessen, as Clerk of the Circuit Court, I have been requested to disseminate the following information:
On Monday, August 24, 2026, Washington County officials informed the Circuit Court that air quality inspections had indicated the presence of mold and microbial growth in many areas of the Washington County Courthouse. Therefore, it was advised that there be an immediate shutdown of the Courthouse and its operations. We were informed on that day that the exact length of the closure was uncertain until further testing of all parts of the Courthouse was completed. Accordingly, the Chief Judge promptly notified the Circuit Court Clerk and the District Court Chief Judges of the closure and that it was done in consultation with the county officials and to allow a comprehensive examination of all areas in the Courthouse. Due to the immediate need for closure, most of the employees and Court personnel had to leave without access to their computers and resources.
On Thursday, August 27, 2026, the Circuit Judges and District Judges met with the County officials, contractors and inspectors at which time it was advised that remedial measures required to make the Courthouse safe for employees and the public would take until at least September 14, 2026, and would preclude being able to use the Courthouse. The Circuit Court and District Courts immediately began discussions to implement plans for their respective courts. Also, since that time Chief Judge Simmons has been in consistent communication with the Supreme Court to provide information and to explain the basis of the need for an emergency order for operations. The result of those discussions is attached.
We regret the inconvenience this closure has caused, but as you can understand, the health and safety of the public and courthouse employees had to take priority. As we get closer to the 14th, we will keep you apprised as to progress and the ability to meet this timeline. In the meantime, you may continue to contact the Circuit Court Judicial Assistants and the Circuit and District Court Clerk’s offices as we operate under these emergency measures.
The Honorable Tricia S. Moore, Clerk of Court
