USPS | APWU - South Jersey Area Local 0526

Editor’s Review: PMG Responds To Chairman Peters

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The response from the Postmaster General (PMG) to concerns raised by Senate signatories regarding mail processing facility reviews (MPFRs) raises more questions than it answers. While the PMG asserts that the MPFRs are meant to improve service reliability and achieve cost savings, the lack of concrete details and transparency in the process is concerning. The promise of no layoffs and improved working conditions is commendable, but without clear plans and timelines, it’s hard to take these assurances at face value.

The decision to pause the implementation of these moves until at least after January 1, 2025, is a step in the right direction. However, the PMG’s commitment to informing the signatories of any future plans does little to address the lack of public input and engagement in the decision-making process. It’s crucial that the USPS prioritize transparency and accountability in its modernization efforts to build trust with employees and the public.

Furthermore, the estimated annual cost savings associated with the mail moves raise questions about the potential impact on service quality. While cost savings are important, they should not come at the expense of timely and reliable mail delivery. The PMG’s assertion that these changes will not adversely impact service is difficult to reconcile with the concerns raised by Senate signatories and employees.

In conclusion, while the PMG’s response offers some reassurances, there is still much to be desired in terms of transparency, public engagement, and accountability. The USPS must prioritize these principles moving forward to ensure that its modernization efforts benefit both employees and customers alike.

Newest OIG Report On Hiring Practices

A bit of history… When a potential employee applies for a position in USPS, they should read the job description. But for the longest time, USPS should perform job interviews by the hiring office or facility. In either case, NONE OF THIS TAKES PLACE.

HOT!!! JUST IN!!!

Originally written by our Director of Associate Offices, Mike Wright.
Attached is the latest report from the OIG regarding the hiring practices by the Postal Service and how they could improve retention of new hires. Some of the highlights of the report are:

Additionally, management interviewed at 20 of 21 (95 percent) facilities stated they would like to be able to include specific position requirements in the job postings.

During FY 2021 through FY 2023, overall employee turnover increased from 56 percent to 57 percent, respectively

18 percent of new hires did not show up for orientation or report for their first day of work
…three of five (60 percent) districts conducted informal meet and-greet discussions with the applicant as a good practice once he or she accepted the position. Facility management stated this helped employees become more aware of the reality of the job and workroom floor and gives them a final opportunity to accept or decline the job.

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Review of the USPS Public Meeting on March 6, 2024

The recent public notification regarding the relocation of operations from the South Jersey Processing and Distribution Center (P&DC) to the Philadelphia P&DC by the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) has been met with criticism. The announcement of the public meeting on March 6, 2024, at 1 PM, at the Cherry Hill Public Library was poorly timed and inadequately notified, leaving little opportunity for meaningful community engagement.

The public meeting held today, at the Cherry Hill Public Library saw minimal participation, with only one customer, several representatives of local unions, and employees, including veterans, in attendance. This low turnout is indicative of the inadequate public notification and highlights the lack of awareness or concern among the broader community regarding the potential impact of USPS’s decision. The fact that the meeting primarily attracted individuals directly affected by the relocation further underscores the need for more extensive outreach and transparent communication from USPS.

One of the concerning aspects of the community meeting was the false information provided regarding job displacement. While USPS claims that there will be no layoffs or closure of the facility, the reality is that employees may be uprooted from their base of operations, leading to instability and potential job loss for some. This discrepancy raised serious questions about USPS’s transparency and credibility in this matter.

The impact of the relocation of operations from the South Jersey Processing and Distribution Center to the Philadelphia P&DC has already led to a decline in delivery service standards, as evidenced by mail delivery delays and the loss of mail and packages. If this trend continues unchecked, it could have serious repercussions for employees and customers alike in the future. Employees face the prospect of job displacement and instability, while customers may experience further delays and disruptions in mail delivery. It is crucial that these issues are addressed promptly to prevent further deterioration of delivery service standards and mitigate the negative impact on employees and customers.

Furthermore, there was no substantial evidence provided to support USPS’s claims of inaccuracies in reporting statistical information. When questioned about the logistics of operations and the real impact on customers, USPS was unable to provide satisfactory answers. This lack of concern or knowledge about the real impact of their decisions on the community is alarming and further erodes trust in USPS’s decision-making process.

Instead of addressing these concerns, USPS seemed to be attempting to cover up the reality of the situation with promises of updating facilities, equipment, and vehicles. While these may be necessary improvements, they did not address the immediate issues at hand or the concerns of the community. Overall, the handling of this situation by USPS was very disappointing and raises serious questions about their commitment to serving the public interest.

Moving forward, it is essential for USPS to engage in more meaningful dialogue with the community, address concerns regarding job stability and operational impact, and ensure transparency in its decision-making processes to uphold its commitment to serving the public interest. It is imperative that we, as members of the community, demand greater transparency and accountability from USPS regarding the relocation of operations from the South Jersey Processing and Distribution Center to the Philadelphia P&DC. We must urge USPS to reconsider its decision and engage in more meaningful dialogue with the community, addressing concerns regarding job stability, operational impact, and public notification. Our voices must be heard to ensure that any changes made benefit all stakeholders involved and uphold USPS’s commitment to serving the public interest. Reach out to your local neighbors, businesses and people of local government and Congressional representatives to push back for a better solution!

Below, you can view and DOWNLOAD USPS’s presentation

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