Courtroom No. 1 Closed For Mold Remediation

Historic Courtroom No. 1, located at the Northampton County Courthouse in Easton, is a majestic ceremonial courtroom. Its massive size and cavernous ceiling adds an aura of dignity during naturalization ceremonies or when elected officials like Executive Lamont McClure take the oath of office. It's also a bit intimidating because all nine judges can and sometimes do take the bench simultaneously. The room is decorated with the scowling portraits of seemingly constipated jurists who have long since ascended into the judicial heavens.

In addition to its ceremonial use, Courtroom No. 1 has been an active, working courtroom. It's where "Calls of the List" are commonly held. That's where which lawyers signal their readiness for a trial or hearing. Judge Leonard Zito routinely arraigns hundreds of criminal defendants monthly. It's where monthly herds of Defendants seeking A.R.D, a special program for first offenders, are corralled. But for the time being, Courtroom No.1 is closed for business.

The doors have been locked because mold has been discovered near the ventilation system.

Executive Lamont McClure said testing reveals that mold levels are a bit higher than they should be, and has decided to remediate it before it gets worse  He said he's working to have the situation addressed as quickly as possible, consistent with the Administrative Code. In the meantime, other courtrooms are being used.

According to the National Institute of Health, mold usually poses no health risks to healthy humans. But some people experience nasal and sinus congestion, eye irritation, blurred vision, a sore throat, chronic cough or skin rash.