[2] In the 1970s, county officials announced a plan to perform extensive changes the building's interior, which had previously experienced few modifications since construction.

The Marion County Historical Society protested the plans and aroused substantial public displeasure; preparations were made for a referendum to repeal the plans, and enough local residents signed a ballot petition that it would have qualified for a vote, but no vote was held because Ohio law does not permit referendums of the sort.

Numerous original wood carvings and paintings were destroyed, ceilings were dropped, and aluminum doors installed.

County officials sought to mollify local ire by retaining the building's exterior, including restoring the statue of Justice atop the tower.

[2] Media related to Marion County Courthouse (Ohio) at Wikimedia Commons