[4/6/04]A proposed change to the city’s fire codes could require some existing businesses to install automatic sprinklers.

The Vicksburg Board of Mayor and Aldermen heard the request Monday from Fire Chief Keith Rogers to update the code to match the National Fire Protection Association model.

The national rules require any bar, night club or lounge with occupancy of more than 100 people to have an automatic sprinkler system. Rogers said some existing businesses do not have sprinklers because it was not a requirement when the businesses opened.

He said, under the proposed ordinance, those businesses could be required to install the systems.

City officials did not say how soon they expect the board to vote on the proposed amendment.

In other matters, the city board:

Accepted the subdivision plat for property being developed on U.S. 61 North.

Approved Triumph Missionary Baptist Church’s free use of the Kings Community Center for a summer program to feed children.

Approved placing temporary signs in the right-of-way for the National Day of Prayer on May 6.

Approved a $250 sponsorship for the River City Rescue Mission’s 8th Annual Golf Tournament.

Allocated $2,000 to the Warren County Economic Development Foundation fund.

Awarded bids for biosolid waste disposal.

Approved a request to place temporary signs in the right-of-way for the National Letter Carrier annual food drive on May 8.

Approved purchase orders of $14,000 for the banners project and $14,297 for Global Information System software.

OK’d the claims docket.

The city board will meet again at 10 a.m. Friday at City Hall Annex.