Municipal Judge Granted Disability Retirement

Citrus Municipal Judge John L. Nichols, 58, who has been on sick leave from his West Covina courtroom since April 20, 1990, has been granted a disability retirement by the state Commission on Judicial Performance.

Nichols, who declined to identify his illness, applied for disability last February. It was granted effective Dec. 10. He will receive a yearly payment equivalent to 65% of his $90,680 annual salary, or $58,942.

The vacancy created by his departure can be filled either by an appointment by Gov. Pete Wilson or by an election.

Nichols had been scheduled to run in June for reelection to another six-year term. If no one is appointed, candidates for his job must file declarations of intent between Jan. 27 and Feb. 5.