U.S. Rep. Nick J. Rahall (D-WV) has asked the United States Postal Service to halt implementing any changes at the Beckley Post Office until it can re-examine the effects that realigning mail processing will have on mail delivery and customer service.

"I have heard a lot of feedback from local postal employees and many constituents concerned about slow delivery time and the possible loss of the Beckley postmark," Rahall said. "There are a lot of legitimate questions that have not yet been answered and it is my position that implementation of any changes before these questions are answered would be, at best, premature and, at worst, disruptive to this essential service."

Rahall pointed to a 2005 government audit prepared by the Government Accountability Office which raises questions about whether consolidation saves money or improves efficiency at all. Furthermore, the report says the Postal Service's strategy for realigning mail processing facilities "lacks clarity, criteria, and accountability."

"This report is evidence that we need to be very cautious and diligent in our efforts to improve mail delivery and customer service," Rahall said.

In February alone, the Beckley Post Office handled an average of 165,000 pieces of mail daily.

"Beckley is growing and economic development is on the rise, making it all the more important that our post office fully is productive and capable of handling increased mail distribution," Rahall said