Petersburg Post Office Grapples with Monthslong Staffing Shortage, Causing Delays
The Petersburg post office has been experiencing significant staffing shortages since August, leading to prolonged lines, package delays, and reduced operating hours. The issue began when several employees resigned, and despite assurances that new staff were en route, the problems have persisted. According to postal spokesperson James Boxrud, the post office has faced "unplanned absences" and recently saw another clerk resign. This situation has directly impacted residents like Eric Lockhart, who faced a critical delay in receiving a shipment of aquarium fish, resulting in the death of eight out of 25 fish. Lockhart had to resort to community outreach via Facebook to secure his package outside of regular hours. While a new clerk is scheduled to begin training in November and two more positions are being hired, the post office has been relying on temporary support from employees rotating in from Anchorage, Homer, Haines, and Ward Cove to manage the workload. The U.S. Postal Service has acknowledged the frus...
