Hope. Might. Intend.

For many, these three words are considered passive. Phrases such as, “we hope” and “we might,” or “we intend to” leave little to inspire action, but rather inspire delay.

These are the phrases the Warren County Board of Supervisors has come to use when discussing replacing the county’s 110-year-old jail.

But while theirs have rarely led to action, a development occurred this week on the project that has been decades in need.

Board of Supervisors president Richard George this week did more than speak in vague terms. He placed dates on the future of a new jail.

During Monday’s meeting, George said it is the board’s “intention” to begin construction of a new jail before the end of the board’s current term in 2019.

And, the board “hopes” to have a site located for the new jail by the end of this year.

These are dates on a calendar. These are fixed in space. And, they are something for which we can now hold our elected leaders accountable.

Far too many times, plans have been talked about, discussions held and hopes dashed.

That must end.

In recent years, convening grand juries have criticized the county for the condition of the antiquated jail. The small size and safety features of the jail have led to thousands upon thousands of expenses for Warren County taxpayers in housing inmates.

While we have struggled with solving the problem for ourselves, other counties have profited from our need of having to house inmates in other facilities.

For the City of Vicksburg, it has cost more than $1 million over the past four years to transport and house prisoners at the Issaquena County Corrections Facility or at county jails in Copiah, Jefferson or Madison counties.

That must end.

While we would all rather see tax monies spent on roads, bridges or schools, a jail is unfortunately a necessary thing.

We applaud Supervisor George and others for finally sticking their necks out, placing their positions on the line, and finally placing a timeline for this project.

We must no longer accept delays and must finally do what so many before us have simply kicked down the road.

Warren County is in need of a new jail, and it is refreshing to have leaders who finally understand such a need exists.