Canada Post's decision to end door-to-door delivery and switch to community mailboxes could have bigger issues at stake, says one Cranbrook councillor.
Coun. Sharon Cross said the Crown corporation maybe has not taken into consideration the direct impact to local governments in terms of land use policies, rights of way, infrastructure for paving, lighting, waste management and public safety.
"Then they go on to say in this letter from Canada Post: 'with respect to mail theft we work with local police to fully investigate any incident and we continually strengthen the security features of our CNBs to keep mail secure.'" Cross said at the Sept. 14 council meeting. "Well, Canada Post doesn't pay for our police services. We do. And by going to these boxes I just think that keeping our mail secure is going to be a real issue."
The letter from Canada Post talks about the conversion of community mailboxes as the cornerstone of the plan to develop its business.
Stetski noted that originally the city had asked Canada Post representatives to come to council to address concerns and answer questions. Canada Post responded that they would come at the appropriate time. That likely would be when the actual phase out is occurring.
Canada Post mentioned a package that is going out to for residents who request accommodation in order to help the company ensure that those with disabilities and seniors can still access mail.
Coun. Gerry Warner suggested that city staff should request copies for council.
"I'd like to see what's in that package and know what their concept of providing us with a great new service," Warner said, adding: "though I really don't think it will be anything of the kind.
Canada Post has said that the move away from door-to-door is a necessity.
"Digital alternatives are replacing traditional mail and that trend will accelerate," wrote Susan Margles, from Canada Post. "We had to transform our business in the face of rapidly declining mail volumes that have put the national postal service at risk.
"It is our aim that we remain an efficient, modern postal service that protects taxpayers and is aligned with the choices consumers are making."
Margles noted the concerns about access to the community mailboxes, saying the issue accessibility issue has been the subject of a great deal of consideration. She also noted a program to help individuals who may have difficulties accessing the mailboxes.
Residents who need special accommodation to access the mailboxes can call Canada Post at 1-844-454-3009.