(Update) Tucson to lose Cherrybell mail processing center

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

The U.S. Postal Service announced last week that it will move all mail processing operations from Tucson to Phoenix. Once the transfer is complete, the mail processing operation in Tucson will cease. Specific dates have not been set for the transition. Tucson to lose mail processing center.

From Tucson Mayor Jonathan Rothschild's newsletter:

Cherrybell slated for closure

I was disappointed to see the Postal Service issue its determination to close Tucson's mail processing facility at Cherrybell and move operations to Phoenix. The move will cost local businesses and non-profits mailing to 856/857 zip codes their SCF discount – increasing bulk mail rates by 4.3 cents apiece.

According to retired Tucson Postmaster Arnold Elias, the move will create two tiers of service; with Phoenix continuing to receive overnight delivery while Tucson mail gets delivered days later. As he put it, Tucsonans will pay first-class rates for second-class service.

Pima County Recorder F. Ann Rodriguez has filed a complaint with the Department of Justice, saying that closing Cherrybell will impact vote by mail throughout the state, particularly in rural areas and on tribal lands.

Congress can still act to halt closure. Locally, Congressman Grijalva has taken a leading role in opposing closure, as has Council Member Fimbres. Please contact members of the Arizona Congressional delegation (both House and Senate) and any other Congressional offices you have a connection with and ask them to ease the financial burdens Congress has placed on the Postal Service (i.e., prefunding retiree health care benefits 75 years into the future) and to consider the economic impact of closure on surrounding communities as part of the selection criteria.

Ultimately, this will be a federal decision. But at the local level, we can make sure our voices are heard. Thank you for adding your voice to this important effort.