To the Editor:
I am writing in response to “Lighten up” by Patricia Manning. (LCN, Page 4, 12/1/11) I would suggest that before she concludes that the residents of Chamberlain are wasting the funds of the Postal Service on an appeal, she should have gathered all the facts.
The meeting that was held was initiated by the Postal Service as part of their procedure to evaluate the closure of the Chamberlain Post Office. Participation in the process is not only a right, but a responsibility of Chamberlain residents to ensure that all concerns are addressed.
With limited roadside delivery, which is determined by the Postal Service, 90 percent of those receiving service through the Chamberlain office receive mail through PO Boxes. By paying an annual fee of $70 I get to receive my mail at an office I can easily walk to. Those with roadside delivery pay nothing extra to walk to the end of their driveway.
By closing the post office I would get to pay an annual box fee and drive another few miles each way at my own expense while those with roadside delivery get to continue to enjoy the short walk.
There are other issues that were also discussed including the potential loss of employment of the two part-time, non benefit receiving, employees who share the coverage of the post office hours.
The structure and tennis courts Ms. Manning referred to is a private non-profit organization and the facilities are not winterized and are only available from May to September.
Please do not trivialize the closing of the Chamberlain Post Office and what it means to the people who receive service there or work and live in our lovely neighborhood.
Bob Young, Chamberlain
