Raymond Boutwell was sworn in Tuesday as the new BrookhavenMunicipal Court judge following the recent death of JerraldNations.

“I’m sad I’m having to take over from such a good friend andgreat judge as Jerry Nations,” Boutwell said. “But I’m lookingforward to working with the city and the Police Department tocontinue what Jerry was doing.”

Boutwell, who until a few years ago had served as cityprosecutor for about 10 years, was sworn in by Circuit Court JudgeMike Taylor during last night’s city board meeting. The new cityjudge mentioned some new ideas he had for the office, but did notelaborate.

Nations died Nov. 9. With Nations’ health waning, aldermen atthe Nov. 7 board meeting named Boutwell as second city court judgeto assist Nations in carrying out court duties.

Following Boutwell’s swearing in, a resolution honoring Nationsand his service to the city was approved and read.

In other business Tuesday, Mayor Bob Massengill said newChristmas lights being installed in downtown will be turned onMonday as a test in preparation for next Thursday’s Christmasparade.

“I think we’re going to like how it looks,” the mayor said.

On a related note, new banners that have been put on utilitypoles on Brookway Boulevard, in the downtown area and elsewheredrew different reactions from two board members.

Ward One Alderman Dorsey Cameron said he was pleased to see thebanners placed around the Dr. Martin L. King Jr. Drive area, afirst that he could recall. Ward Three Alderman Mary Wilsonquestioned why more were not put along South First Street.

Massengill said he would look into the South First Streetsituation. He added, though, the plan was to add more banners nextyear.

“It’s not finished yet,” the mayor said about decoration plans.”We’re just getting a good start.”