Isle of Wight County has been talking about consolidating services between the county and school system for a decade.

On Thursday night, the school board continued the discussion at a work session. Duplication between the county and school system was scheduled to be looked at there — everything from legal services and public information to maintenance and human resources.

In this economic climate, especially with International Paper Co.’s Franklin mill to close in the spring, talk of consolidation is a must.

We’re glad Isle of Wight seems serious about going beyond the talking phase. Ten years is long enough — now’s the time for action.

Franklin and Southampton County have also done their share of talking about eliminating duplication of services, although not at the rate of our neighbors to the northeast.

Let’s hope they’re as inspired by Thursday’s IOW meeting.