The Marion County Board has been told the Moose building being used for record storage is in need of $150,000 to $200,000 in repairs. Building Committee Chair Deb Reed reported on what Shores Builders of Centralia found when inspecting the building.
Board Chair Steve Whritenour says the board will look at their options.
“Obviously, it needs a lot of work and a lot of repairs,” Whritenour said. “We’re going to have to do a much deeper dive into determining if that investment is worth it. There’s also another potential building close here to the courthouse that might be available. We might explore that option. We also, of course, own the parking lot and the lot to the west of the parking lot, caddy corner from the courthouse. We could see if it’s a viable option to possibly build a storage type facility, something that would last long term.”
Whritenour notes if they make the repairs, they will have $500,000 invested in what will still be an old building. He’s most concerned about making the building a safe environment for those coming to the building for records.
The building committee toured the building after concerns were raised about possible mold issues, water getting into the structure, as well as part of the floor sinking. At that point, Shores was contacted to tour the facility and determine all of the structural issues.
