JCC Supes Want to Ensure Monticello Post Office Stays Open

By Desiree Parker Friday, January 13, 2012

James City County supervisors are concerned that a developer offered to buy a local post office property.

Supervisor John McGlennon told the board Tuesday that he had spoken to local post office officials who had said that a developer offered to purchase the Monticello Avenue site, and that the post office was reviewing the offer. WYDaily contacted a U.S. Postal Service representative who said she could not disclose information on possible offers, whether they are solicited or unsolicited.

Last year, the postal service published a list of branches around the country it was considering closing or consolidating due to its severe financial problems, but no Historic Triangle branches were listed. At the time, an official said the postal service needed to cut operating costs by $20 billion by 2015 to be profitable again.

McGlennon noted that before the Monticello location had opened, there was a lot of congestion at the Lafayette Street branch.

He also pointed out that the Monticello branch is not losing money and has been successful, and that it was important to the county, both for residents and from an economic development standpoint, to keep the location open.

Taking action early before the post office officials make a decision is key, McGlennon said, and he asked the Board to send letters of concern to the county’s representatives in Congress and to post office officials quickly.

The board agreed.