USPS Postmaster General Louis DeJoy wants to completely transform the postal delivery network. But despite one observer calling it "the most massive change in postal operations in decades," DeJoy is doing it without consulting the Postal Regulatory Commission.
That's according to Save the Post Office's Steve Hutkins, who was named 2 years ago as "one of the most consistent independent USPS observers looking out for the best interests of ordinary U.S. residents," according to Vice.com.
The USPS revealed the plan in its
Eagle Magazine last month, writing, "As part of a massive redesign of the postal processing, transportation, and delivery infrastructure, systematic replacement of many existing facilities will dramatically improve working environments, while improving service performance and operational efficiency."
But in his article this week on
SaveThePostOffice.com, Hutkins details his analysis of the plan and why he gives it a big thumbs down - with ramifications for online sellers who rely on the USPS to get their orders to customers.
Interestingly, the USPS has talked about difficulty recruiting employees. The new plan, according to Hutkins, will result in longer commutes for letter carriers - he estimates by an average of 120 hours a year ("the equivalent of three weeks’ work, unpaid") and an average of 5,000 more miles, which he estimates will cost an extra $3,150 in gas (non-reimbursable). That could exacerbate the staffing problem.
Hutkins also noted that despite receiving tens of billions of dollars from Congress, the Postmaster General continues with his Delivering for America plan that, according to Hutkins, "has already slowed down First Class mail and raised prices across the board, and it will eventually include reducing retail hours, closing post offices, and disposing of historic properties. The PMG is also talking about eliminating 50,000 jobs."
Despite Congress' funding that shows bipartisan support for the Postal Service, it doesn't appear to have concerns about the fact the Postmaster General is disregarding the important oversight role of the Postal Regulatory Commission. It would be helpful to hear from the PRC if it agrees with DeJoy's assessment of the delivery-network plans, or if it shares the concerns raised by Hutkins.
As far as we know, PRC Chairperson Michael Kubayanda has been silent on the issue of the PMG moving forward on plans the PRC has not reviewed.
It raises the question, what other changes might the Postmaster General be making under the radar?
A Warning as USPS Restructures Network without Review
by: The End 
by: toolguy 
by: COVID-19 
by: DZT