City officials Friday agreed to help local industry Hancor Inc. get a railroad spur built to the business by acting as an intermediary for a loan from the state.

The rail project is projected to cost $767,346, and $500,000 in community development block grant funds are already pledged to the project.

The remaining $267,346 for the project will come in the form of an economic development loan from the state to the city.

“There are several industries in need of a rail spur in that area,” said Mayor Robert Walker. “Hancor has agreed to pay the loan back through the city.”

In other business, the city:

Agreed to accept gas and sewer lines running to the new River Region hospital still under construction. The agreement indicates the city’s intent to maintain the lines and provide service through them, and to collect the associated fees.

Declared time clocks and other city property as surplus to be sold at auction.

Accepted a letter from the Zoning Board of Appeals to rezone a lot on Coccaro’s Alley from C-1, neighborhood commercial to R-3, two-family residential, to accommodate an addition on a family home.

Adopted the final order for an ad valorem tax exemption for Cooper Lighting Inc.

Approved participation of the city’s Parks and Recreation department in the Christmas parade sponsored by the Vicksburg Jaycees, and allocated $300 for related expenses.

Approved an ad for the Vicksburg Chamber of Commerce book.

Approved the claims docket.