Garfield Heights judge says courthouse unsafe, urges relocation or major repairs

Presiding Municipal Judge DeCastro told Garfield Heights City Council on Feb. 10 that the municipal courthouse is unsafe and urged the city to pursue either major rehabilitation or relocation of court operations, potentially to Newburgh Heights.

“I believe that's an essential safety hazard,” Judge DeCastro said, referring to the building’s lack of a functioning fire-alarm system in large portions of the structure. She described recurring black mold, poor ventilation, lack of accessible restrooms and conditions in the courthouse basement that have required frequent temporary fixes.

The judge said the court has explored options for years and that the city lacks sufficient funds to rebuild a new facility now. She told the council the court’s caseload changed after a 2019 state law moved traffic-camera cases into municipal court, producing a large increase in filings that the court must handle. To reduce in‑person traffic and protect public health, Judge DeCastro said the court will maximize remote hearings for matters that allow it and is seeking temporary alternatives for jury trials and probation meetings if the building cannot be made safe.

Why it matters: Council members and city officials say the courthouse serves multiple municipalities and that fixes or relocation would carry direct cost and operational consequences. Council members who spoke during the meeting expressed urgency about safety and a desire to reach consensus on next steps while being mindful of the city’s budget constraints.

Councilwoman Pro Tem Collier told the judge and colleagues the courthouse conditions are “unacceptable,” and the council agreed to pursue committee-level follow-up.…