6/25/2026

UPPER MICHIGAN - Michigan communities are among those feeling the effects of post office suspensions nationwide. According to the American Postal Workers Union, more than 400 facilities in 48 states are grappling with issues, such as lease disputes, staffing shortages, building damage, and safety concerns. Residents in some Michigan communities are worried about having to travel farther to access postal services. During a recent livestream, union leader James Stevenson shared what he believes are the consequences of post office closures.

                    0:13  "Once you close all these post offices, that revenue simply dissipates, and you simply push people into alternative means of mailing. And more likely than not, it's going to be more expensive than the universal cost that you have with the Postal Service."

Union leaders say residents often don't realize they have the opportunity to comment on or appeal proposed post office closures through a federal review process, and they're encouraging Michigan residents to get involved. Leaders point to successful efforts in Detroit and the Kalamazoo area, where residents and local leaders fought to keep post offices open.