We all know it takes forever to get things done — in New York state and in Chautauqua County. Change never comes easy.

For decades the old Fredonia police station has been a source of frustration. It is antiquated, outdated and built for the 19th century. There is no question officers and staff deserve better.

That being said, we are at a point where two municipalities are scrimping by — the village as well as the city of Dunkirk. Last week, Mayor Michael Ferguson pinpointed a possible location near the Fire Department for a new station.

Do not do it.

Once a new station is built, any hopes for north county mergers will vanish. In addition, the cost will be an added burden to village residents — who just forked over a 54% tax hike last summer.

New York state is funding consolidation opportunities, not new municipal buildings. We understand the need for a new police station, but there is another reality that has to be at the forefront in this: Fredonia is on a fiscal cliff. Residents already are pinching pennies to pay for the current budget.

How can they take on a new structure?