CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — The Ross County Courthouse will shorten its public hours beginning Jan. 5, 2026, operating only from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, officials announced.
The change, detailed in a memo dated Nov. 12, from the Ross County Board of Commissioners, follows recommendations from the Ohio Supreme Court on courthouse safety and security.
The adjustment aims to support the establishment of a single point of entry for the public and required security checkpoints during administrative office hours, the memo said. Staffing will ensure consistency and security for all employees and visitors.
Employees may continue using key fobs to enter through back entrances of the non-employee access courthouse. Visitors and guests, however, will no longer be permitted to use those entrances.
The memo noted that elected officials recently discussed the Ohio Supreme Court’s Nov. 7, 2025, recommendations on enhanced safety protocols and reached consensus on the new hours.
Questions about the change can be directed to County Administrator Brad Cosenza at [email protected] or 740-702-3085.
The Ross County Courthouse is located at 2 N. Paint St. in Chillicothe.