Postal plan could cost Spfld 150 jobs

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - The United States Postal service is exploring the possibility of consolidating mail distribution, and that could mean the loss of many jobs in Springfield.

It's no secret that the Postal Service is in a world of hurt---drowning in debt. Now, they have proposed consolidating the operations here in Springfield, which conservatively could eliminate or uproot at least 150 jobs.

The center in Springfield is the area’s central hub. It is where they sort, postmark, and process the mail. The Postal Service cites a deep drop in mail volume and an excess of employees as a reason for the possible consolidation.

They say the move would save them nearly $14 million and would not affect your daily mail delivery. It may, however affect how your items are postmarked as well as the delivery date for certain things that you order.

Employees of the distribution center, like 27-year employee Glenn Koscielski, are accusing the Postal Service of being reckless.“This action that’s being taken is more of a slash-and-burn approach to save the Post Office. They seem more intent on destroying it than actually saving it,” Koscielski said.

A meeting was held Tuesday night at the Kennedy Middle School. It was a chance for the public to provide the postal service with community input and voice their concerns, and a lot of people attended.

To make your voice heard, you can send a comment in writing to 141 Weston Street in Hartford, CT zip code 06101. All comments must be postmarked by November 23.