Postal Rates Rising, Convenience, Customer Service Decreasing Locally

The cost of a first class stamp will rise to 44 cents on May 11th.

On May 11th, the price of a first-class postage stamp will rise to 44 cents. It was announced recently, as a cost saving measure, postage may no longer be processed in Utica. Studies are currently underway to consolidate which could mean the disappearance of the Utica postmark.

 With dwindling use of their services, what's the Postal Service in the Mohawk Valley to do, in order to win back and increase foot traffic in post offices?  Quality customer service and convenience for residents is a good starting place.

  Customer friendly.  That's all local post offices need to focus on in order to become more profitable and meaningful to residents throughout the Mohawk Valley.  A cut in operational hours and services offered have turned many would-be customers to utilizing computerized mailing options, as opposed to paying a visit to their local post office.

    In the Herkimer Post Office lobby hours have been dcecreased.  The front doors are locked at 5pm.  For working residents, checking postal boxes and picking up mailing supplies have become unfriendly.  In the Ilion branch, much like other locations, the lobby window, where stamps can be purchased, mail retrieved, products selected, and questions answered by actual employees as opposed to making endless selections over the telephone, continue to make what should be an easy daily task into a frustrating nightmare.

    Want to purchase a stamp or two and you're still searching for the vending machine?  Quit.  They have been removed.  Trying to get a half dozen chores accomplished during what is supposed to be designated for eating your lunch, and the Post Office is one of your stops?  Better rethink your plan and cut the list down to one, that is if you are in the Village of Herkimer. 

     One employee working tirelessly, complete with a half dozen or more patrons forming a line, and no additional help in the offering.  I can remember during the Christmas rush pleading with  the Postmaster in Herkimer to add another employee to the counter, or, an offering for her to roll up her sleeves and lend a hand to  get commerce moving beyond a snail's pace, only to have my wishes dashed.

    If the Post Office want an increase in business, give the people what they need and deserve most - customer service. Mohawk Valley residents can be easily pleased.