make a difference | APWU - South Jersey Area Local 0526

NJ Congressman Addresses USPS’s Latest Changes

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!

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Notices of Public Meeting for SO Jersey NJ P&DC

There will be a Public Meeting next Wednesday, March 6, 2024 at 1 PM (EST) at the Cherry Hill Public Library. (DOWNLOAD THE ATTACHED DOCUMENTS TO SEE THE FULL DETAILS)

The recent announcement by the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) regarding the potential relocation of operations from the South Jersey Processing and Distribution Center (P&DC) in Bellmawr NJ to the Philadelphia P&DC in Philadelphia PA has sparked significant concerns among residents and businesses. While part of a $40 billion investment strategy aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and improving customer service, this move has already resulted in mail delivery delays and the loss of mail and packages. These issues underscore the pressing need for a thorough reassessment of this decision.

The USPS’s Delivering for America plan, while seeking to make the Postal Service more efficient and competitive, has raised doubts about its effectiveness in light of the current situation at the South Jersey P&DC. The facility review, intended to inform resource allocation and enhance customer service, has instead led to disruptions that are negatively impacting the community. Moreover, the potential decrease in employment opportunities due to this relocation adds to the local economic struggles, further exacerbating the situation.

Public input is a crucial component of such decisions, yet the short notice given for the public meeting on March 6, 2024, at the Cherry Hill Public Library, has left little time for meaningful community engagement. This rushed approach undermines the transparency and inclusivity necessary for a decision of this magnitude, especially considering the potential impact on the stability of current employees who may be uprooted from their base of operations, leading to possible job losses.

As concerned citizens, we urge the USPS to reconsider its decision regarding the South Jersey P&DC. While recognizing the need for modernization and efficiency, we emphasize that these goals should not come at the expense of service quality and community well-being. We call for a more comprehensive evaluation, with ample opportunity for public input, to ensure that any changes made benefit all stakeholders involved, including the employees whose livelihoods are at stake.

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Standing Against Deteriorating Mail Service

The United States Postal Service (USPS) is currently facing a myriad of challenges, including delayed mail, facility closures, intentional short staffing, and redirected mail logistics. These issues not only inconvenience millions of Americans but also threaten the integrity of a critical public service. Timely mail delivery is essential for individuals and businesses alike, impacting everything from bill payments to business transactions. Delays in mail delivery can lead to significant financial losses and missed opportunities, highlighting the urgent need for the USPS to prioritize efficient and timely service.

Furthermore, the closure of postal facilities exacerbates challenges for both USPS employees and customers. Such closures disrupt local communities and contribute to longer delivery times and increased workloads for remaining postal workers. Particularly in rural areas, facility closures can leave residents without convenient access to essential postal services, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a robust and accessible postal network. Additionally, intentional short staffing within the USPS poses significant problems, leading to increased stress and burnout among workers and compromising service quality. Adequate staffing levels are crucial for ensuring efficient mail processing and delivery.

In response to these pressing issues, it is vital for the public to mobilize and demand accountability and reform within the USPS. Citizens can take action by contacting elected representatives, participating in community protests, and advocating for legislative measures to address systemic challenges. By standing together, the public can send a powerful message that deteriorating mail service standards are unacceptable and demand better for themselves and future generations. It is essential to uphold the USPS’s vital role with excellence and integrity, ensuring it continues to serve as a cornerstone of society.

Use the attached documents to inform your neighbors, local businesses, local and state officials. Use the petition to gather our neighborly support!

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