Courthouse dome, roof repairs underway

Nearly two years after the dome and roof of the historic Owen County Courthouse in Spencer were damaged by large hail, work has begun to return the structure to its original copper glory.

According to Owen County Commissioner Sam Hobbs, the work is being completed by Precision Contracting and will include a new copper exterior for the dome and a new rubber membrane for the courthouse's flat roof. Additionally, the window frames on the dome will be repaired, painted, and permanent coverings installed to protect the dome's original windows from the elements of weather.

The project, financed via a county insurance claim, is tentatively scheduled for completion in early September, at which time the north parking lot of the courthouse will be reopened.