We appreciate methodical. We appreciate thoughtful decisions. We appreciate the art of planning.

That being said, recent delays on making a decision involving the City of Vicksburg animal shelter have left us wondering, how long does it take to decide on its new location?

If this issue is on the to-do list for some city officials, just how far down the list is it? If it is important to get this done, then what other important things are lagging behind?

North Ward Alderman Michael Mayfield is charged with the leadership of the city’s animal shelter and it is under his responsibility this drawn-out search and decision falls under.

As we enter yet another — and what seems unending — flood season, there is a threat once again to the current animal shelter.

Not only is the current facility out of room and outdated, but it also sits in constant threat of flood or risk of having access denied by a flood.

And the importance of constructing a new shelter, at a new location, is not just one driven by needed upgrades and more room, but better service to the residents of Vicksburg.

Its facility houses quarantined animals and its personnel responds to take in animals that are threatened or those that are threatening others.

This decision and planning have taken long enough. It has taken far longer than needed.

It is our hope the Board of Mayor and Aldermen, based on a recommendation from Alderman Mayfield, will soon make a decision on where the new shelter will be located and that construction of such a facility can begin quickly.

The current facility is at capacity and no longer meets the needs of or the mission animal control personnel work to carry out.

Enough is enough. It’s time to make a decision.