On 6 March at Cherry Hill Public Library, the U.S. Postal Service’s announcement of the potential relocation of operations from the South Jersey Processing and Distribution Center to the Philadelphia P&DC had sparked significant criticism and concern. The poorly timed public meeting and inadequate public notification had highlighted the lack of transparency and inclusivity in the decision-making process. False information regarding the possibilities of job displacement and the lack of substantial evidence to support claims of operational improvements further eroded trust in the USPS’s intentions. Calls for greater transparency and accountability were made to ensure that any changes benefit all customers, employees, and uphold the USPS’s commitment to serving the public interest.
New Jersey House of Reprsentative, Donald Norcross also showed his concerns by reaching out to Postmaster General Louis DeJoy through correspondence. (See Representative Norcross’ letter to Postmaster DeJoy below this article.)
Representative Norcross has also taken to the public on this matter. He wrote:
Dear Friend,
I have many concerns about the Postal Service’s proposed changes to the South Jersey distribution center and the potential impact it may have on delivery times, small businesses, and jobs across the region. From an electric bill or mail-in ballot to a lifesaving prescription or COVID-19 test, we all know how important timely mail delivery is to our daily lives. South Jerseyans deserve more transparency when USPS wants to make significant changes that will impact its services.
Wednesday’s hearing, which was not advertised with adequate notice and is occurring during most people’s normal work hours, is also extremely concerning. Holding one hearing in only one town on the proposal is restrictive on the public’s ability to provide input and is a disservice to our community. The distribution center serves a large region in South Jersey and our community must be allowed to have sufficient input on the proposed changes.
Through March 21st, you can also submit an online public comment here.
That’s why I wrote to Postmaster General Louis DeJoy urging greater transparency and sharing these concerns. My team and I will continue to monitor this situation and work to ensure that mail services remain timely and reliable for South Jerseyans.
SUBMIT YOUR PUBLIC OPINION HERE!