Some Capitol offices to reopen after fire
More than half of the offices in the Oregon State Capitol will reopen on Wednesday as cleanup from last weekend’s fire continues.
An environmental assessment concluded that the building is safe and that many offices can reopen Wednesday morning. Officials hope to re-open the entire building on a limited basis by the end of the week.
“Smoke and water damage from the fire was extensive,” said Senate President Peter Courtney, in a statement. “The biggest concern at present is air quality and some areas will have to remain closed pending a thorough cleaning of portions of the Capitol’s ventilation system.”
State employees in offices that will remain closed are being asked to work from home.
The offices that will reopen on Wednesday include the state treasurer’s office, the House offices for the speaker and majority staffers, Senate offices for both Democrats and Republicans, the chief clerk’s office, the Senate secretary and the facility’s state police office.
Other areas opening on Wednesday include facilities services, legislative supply, the pressroom and the legislative media, counsel and fiscal offices.
The information services office in the building’s basement will be open, as will the Indian services office and the governor’s staff offices in Room 160.
Offices remaining closed include those housing staff for the secretary of state, legislative administration, financial services, employee services, committee services and capitol offices for other legislative assembly members free credit report .com. The Legislative Revenue Office, Information Services Development Office, visitor services, gift shop and hearing rooms will also remain closed.
Gov. Ted Kulongoski’s staff will occupy temporary offices two blocks from the Capitol building. The fire started early Saturday morning outside Kulongoski’s ceremonial office. Some parts of the capital received extensive smoke and water damage.