US Postal Service establishing village post office in Coram

Coram area residents say they had to wait about three days to get their mail at the Coram Post Office, though their mailboxes were full of mail last Wednesday.

The troubles started at the post office late last month after local businessman Gary Paduana reportedly declined to continue his contract with the U.S. Postal Service.

“Earlier this year, the contractor who was providing service to the Coram Contract Postal Unit decided to not renew their commitment,” said Kim Frum, U.S. Postal Service spokesperson. “There was a search for a new vendor, but it was unsuccessful. In order to provide uninterrupted service to the community, the Postal Service is leasing a space in the same facility and is establishing a Village Post Office. This ensures consistent, daily mail delivery without interruption.”

That is true, except for the interruption part. Patrons contacted the Hungry Horse News saying they hadn’t received mail since the first week of April.

Longtime resident Gil Jordan said he stopped by the post office on April 12 and postal agents were sorting piles of mail and putting it into post office boxes. He said the postal employees said they planned on putting in secure boxes so people could receive packages.

In addition, Jordan was told a postal employee would be there each day to distribute mail.

The post office almost closed entirely last year, but Sen. Jon Tester stepped in and the contract to run it was extended. The post office is in the same building as Spruce Park Appliance.

The post office is no longer a retail site. Patrons have to drive to Hungry Horse or West Glacier to buy stamps and other supplies.