County Mayor Claude Ramsey said plans are being designed for the renovation of the clerk and master's office and Chancery Court courtrooms - including cleaning for mold and mildew.
He also said Chancellors Howell Peoples and Frank Brown have rescinded an order that would have withheld over half a million dollars from the county. The money was to be set aside for a move away from the historic County Courthouse.
Clerk and Master Lee Akers earlier said he found dangerous conditions of mold in his offices, causing him and other employees to become ill.
Mr. Ramsey said the clerk and master's office is "next on the list"
for renovations at the old courthouse.
He said the job will be bid as soon as the design is finished.
Mr. Ramsey said the judges may have to be out of their courtrooms, but, if so, only for a short time. The two judges earlier vacated their offices for several months while work was underway. Chancellor Peoples said they recently were told they would have to move back out.
The new order from the judges says, "Whereas, representations have been made on behalf of the County Executive and County Commission that health and safety concerns associated with renovations planned for the courthouse and specifically for the Clerk & Master and Chancery Court will be expeditiously addressed, and
"Whereas, assurances have been given that every reasonable effort will be made to provide a satisfactory temporary location accessible to litigants, the public, attorneys and others having business with the Clerk & Master and the Chancery Court, it is
"Ordered that the Order entered on Aug. 6, 2006, authorizing the Clerk & Master to retains fees of his office in order to acquire satisfactory temporary accommodations is set aside. The Clerk & Master shall remit the excess fees on hand as of Sept. 1, 2006 as provided by T.C.A. Sec. 8-22-104."