The power to regulate building materials and set minimum design standards for businesses in certain zones of Vicksburg will be sought by the Board of Mayor and Aldermen.

City officials voted Monday to request a package of local and private laws from the Legislature, now in session in Jackson.

Municipal powers are limited, and some ordinances require state permission to enact.

Last week, Sen. Mike Chaney, R-Vicksburg, cast doubt on whether a law to regulate building materials would pass. A similar bill died in Senate committee in 2004 without coming up for a vote.

Chaney also said a law to allow the city to house surplus inmates in Louisiana, also being sought again this year, is doubtful.

“It’s the same things done in other communities around the state,” said Mayor Laurence Leyens.

Vicksburg does not have a jail and, instead, pays Warren and Issaquena counties for jail space. City officials say they can save money with an inmate contract with Tallulah, 20 miles west of Vicksburg.

As a third local and private bill, Vicksburg is also seeking legislative permission to donate tax funds to Keep Vicksburg-Warren Beautiful.

In other matters the city board: