The U.S. Postal Service is proposing to consolidate the Northwood Branch at 516 Northwood Road in West Palm Beach with the Downtown West Palm Beach Post Office at 640 Clematis Street. The distance between the two Post Offices is one mile.
The public is invited to meet and discuss this proposal with postal officials on Wednesday, October 26, from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm, at the Mary V. McDonald-Wilson Center Gaines Park, 1505 N. Australian Avenue, West Palm Beach. Earlier in October, customers were provided questionnaires as part of this postal study. Employees who wish to attend this meeting are reminded that it is an off-the-clock activity.
As a self-supporting government enterprise, the Postal Service receives no tax dollars, but relies solely on the sale of postage, products, and services to pay for operating expenses. Due to the drastic decline in mail volume, the Postal Service is in a financial crisis and must take action to reduce the size of its retail and delivery network.
Nationwide, there are 26,000 Post Offices that do not generate enough revenue to cover costs. However, by law (Title 39), the Postal Service cannot close a Post Office for solely economical reasons. The proximity to other Post Offices and expanded access availability are considerations.
There was a time when virtually every postal transaction required a visit to the local Post Office retail counter. Now many customers are looking for postal services other than at brick and mortar Post Offices. Today nearly 35 percent of transactions are conducted using alternate retail channels. Customers may purchase stamps or discounted shipping labels, request free package pickup, or research Post Office Box availability at usps.com. Stamps also may be purchased at 1-800-STAMP24 or by order form from a letter carrier. Many drug stores, grocery stores, and office supply companies carry stamps for the convenience of their customers. Retail locations are listed at usps.com.
The following community meetings in the West Palm Beach area also are scheduled:
Southboro PO Community Meeting
Thursday, November 3
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Gaines Park Community Center, 1505 N Australian Ave, West Palm Beach
Singer Island PO Community Meeting
Monday, November 7
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Gaines Park Community Center, 1505 N Australian Ave, West Palm Beach
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