The public input is to be considered prior to a final decision, which is expected to be to in October.

During the meeting the audience was told the move would save approximately $953,267. The savings would result in reductions to employee salaries, management salaries, as well as maintenance and transportation expenses.

Due to the consolidation, a net decrease of approximately 11 positions was projected.

While the employees will not lose their jobs, postal officials said their job description may change.

"It may not be the job they're used to doing; it may not be the hours they're used to working or even the facility; but we do the best we can to find them work," said Tad Kelley, USPS Communications Programs Specialist.

However, when one of the workers asked where those job openings are located, they were not given an answer.

The issue has left workers disgruntled.

"A year ago or so we stood here and gave facts, figures, efficiency reports and showed that the Wheeling post office employees did more with less than most plants in the country. Did that make a difference? No," said Jim Tysk.

As far as affects on customers, postal officials said local collection box pick-up times will not change and business mail acceptance will remain the same.

A local postmark will be available for stamped First-Class Mail. Furthermore, delivery of mail to residences and businesses will not change.

The main concern for many of the customers at Wednesday's meeting was receiving late mail.

But Kelley said that should not be an issue. "Last year when we took originating mail out of Wheeling and brought it to Pittsburgh, we brought it overnight and still maintained a 96 percent on-time delivery," he said.

Kelley added that the shrinking workload can not be ignored.

"We've lost 43 billion pieces of mail in the last two years alone," he said.

Customers can still allow their voices to be heard.

Written comments may be sent to: Manager, Consumer and Industry Contact Western Pennsylvania District 1001 California Ave Pittsburgh, PA 15290-9631