Meeting Tuesday, the Vicksburg Board of Mayor and Aldermen, in the absence of South Ward Alderman Sid Beauman:

* Approved minutes from Dec. 10 and 15.

* Increased a contract with Canton-based Williford, Gearhart & Knight Engineers and Surveyors by $3,000 to $73,190 for ongoing NRCS drainage improvements in the Halls Ferry Road and Hills of the Valley areas.

* Received bids for plastering both pools at City Park. Blue Haven Pools of Flowood bid $136,600 and Utility Contractors  Inc. of Jackson bid $138,350.

* Received bids for asphalt from APAC-Mississippi.

* Received no bids for recreational supplies and authorized the city clerk to re-advertise.

* Hired Paul Massey Pest Services for pest control.

* Accepted prices from MMC Materials for various products.

* Declared a wrecked 2000 Ford Crown Victoria as surplus and authorized selling it as scrap.

* Discussed dilapidated buildings and overgrown lot codes in regard to properties on Levee Street and at 801 W. Pine St. and 1226 Second North St., and authorized Director of Building and Inspection Victor Gray-Lewis to proceed to cut, clean and demolish dilapidated buildings at the properties.

* Approved a proposal from the police department to alter its employee assessment process.

*Approved a lease with Unitech for copiers for the Vicksburg Main Street Program ($80 per month) and Vicksburg Municipal Airport ($30 per month).

In executive session, the board:

* Approved a rehire in the information technology department.

* Approved a status change in the police department.

* Approved raises for two employees in the water treatment department.

* Approved a termination in the water maintenance department.

*Discussed two personnel matters in the police department.

The next board meeting is scheduled for 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 23 in room 109 of the City Hall Annex, 1415 Walnut St.