AREA MAIL PROCESSING (AMP) FEASIBILITY STUDY
Aberdeen, SD CSMPC to Dakota Central, SD P&DF

April 21, 2011

Area Mail Processing (AMP) is the consolidation of mail processing operations from one or more postal facilities to other facilities to improve operational efficiency and/or service.

An AMP study was initiated to evaluate the transfer of mail processing from the Aberdeen, SD Customer Service Mail Processing Center (CSMPC) to the Dakota Central Processing and Distribution Facility (P&DF) in Huron, SD.  The initial results of the study support the business case for consolidation.  This study, currently in review at United States Postal Service Headquarters and its Area Office, is subject to change.

A public meeting will be held to share the initial results of the study and allow members of the community to ask questions and provide feedback.  The public’s input will be considered prior to a final decision.

The meeting will be held on Monday, May 9, 2011, at 7 p.m., at the Ramada Inn, 2727 6th Ave SE, Aberdeen, SD 57401. Below are preliminary highlights from the study:

1.	Business Case

Proposed annual savings in the draft AMP feasibility study are approximately $462,000.  Aberdeen, SD is one of several studies being investigated for possible consolidation of operations within the Dakota District. Initial indications are that the combined total of savings associated with these consolidations may exceed $1.5 million per year.

2.	Postal Employees

Due to the consolidation, a net decrease of approximately three positions is projected.  All reassignments will be made in accordance with collective bargaining agreements.

3.	Local Customer Considerations

•	Collection box pick-up times will not change as a result of the AMP.
•	Retail services will remain the same.
•	Business mail acceptance will remain the same.
•	A local postmark will be available for stamped First-Class Mail.
•	Delivery of mail to residences and businesses will not change as a result of the AMP.

4.	Commercial Mailers

Mailers who presort mail will continue to receive appropriate postage discounts.

Written comments may be sent to the following:

MANAGER CONSUMER AFFAIRS
DAKOTAS DISTRICT
PO BOX 7570
SIOUX FALLS SD 57117-7570

All comments must be postmarked by May 24, 2011.