A representative with USPS told KENS 5 the “mailboxes are operational, and mail is being delivered daily.”
SAN ANTONIO — Residents of the Lochwood Neighborhood Association have been dealing with the stress of thieves breaking into their mailboxes since the summer months and they’re demanding action for replacement units.
Longtime neighbor Robert Rosales has spearheaded the community effort to contact the United States Postal Service and Postal Inspection Service with the hopes of securing new cluster mailboxes. But so far, he’s had little luck, other than receiving temporary fixes.
“We just want something done because people are getting fed up,” Rosales said. “Unfortunately, we’ve been here since 1988, we had one or two break-ins but since the summer we’ve had them almost bi-weekly.”
The Lochwood Neighborhood Association is home to three cluster mailboxes, which all have been targeted at some point, according to Rosales and other residents. Rosales noted the units date back to the 80s with wear and tear apparent.
Gregory Veit recalled the time when he was expecting replacement credit cards to show up in the mail from his bank. But instead, he received an unexpected yet alarming phone call.
“Suddenly, I’m getting a call from the bank saying are you at Target trying to charge $4,000 worth of merchandise and I said that is certainly not me,” Veit said.
It appears no replacement units are coming anytime soon. A representative with USPS told KENS 5 the “mailboxes are operational, and mail is being delivered daily.”
Meanwhile, the band of neighbors are staying hopeful for a different and more favorable outcome in the near future.
“I think it’s time for an upgrade,” Rosales said.
“This causes losses for families, for businesses, it’s not good for the reputation of the Postal Service either,” Veit said.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service urges everyone to check mail daily and track shipments by signing up online for email and text alerts at www.usps.com.
If you’re away for an extended period of time, the Post Office can hold your mail, which also can be requested online.
Those who’ve yet to receive checks or other valuable mail must contact the issuing agency.
For more information click here.