Statesboro City Council kicked off the new year by welcoming its newest member in a Thursday meeting at City Hall.
    District 1 representative Phil Boyum, the winner of a runoff election in December, was officially sworn in Thursday and honored with a breakfast reception before the business portion of council’s first meeting in 2013.
    “Phil, I want to congratulate you for being willing to serve on the Statesboro City Council,” Mayor Joe Brannen said. “I know you are very familiar with (council), from covering it for the newspaper for a number of years, and we are just glad to have you with us.”
    Boyum will succeed former Councilman Tommy Blitch, who resigned in August, citing mounting health concerns.
    As a first order of business Thursday, Bulloch County Probate Judge Lee Deloach administered an Oath of Office for the incoming councilman.
    “I do solemnly swear that I will faithfully discharge all duties devolving on me as councilman of the City of Statesboro, during my term in office, according the best of my ability and understanding,” said Boyum, repeating the oath aloud with his right hand raised.
    Friends and family were on hand for the presentation, including Boyum’s 8-year-old son, Spencer, who held the Bible during his father’s swearing-in ceremony. Boyum said Spencer served as his campaign manager.
    “I am just really looking forward to a good 2013,” Boyum said, as he settled into the new seat. “I appreciate (the welcome).”
    Boyum is the only newcomer to the council chambers this year.
    His term, along with those of Brannen and District 4 Councilman John Riggs, are set to expire in November.
    In other business Thursday, council approved a motion to authorize negotiations with Martin Rule and Associates/Stewart Cooper Newell for designs of a new fire station and the renovation of the West Grady Street station.
    The group also agreed to award a $339,267 contract to Y-Delta Inc. for a project to replace filters at the city’s wastewater treatment plant.
    Also, city personnel Brad Deal (Engineering) and Teresa Skinner (Tax Clerk) were recognized for professional achievements.
    Council will next meet at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 15, in the City Hall council chambers.
   
    Jeff Harrison may be reached at (912) 489-9454.