Site Selection Procedures for Postal Facility in Euclid, Ohio

Questions were raised concerning the Postal Service's selection and acquisition of a site for a new post office in Euclid, Ohio. Allegations concerned overpriced land, improper acquisition procedures, and undesirability of the location. The majority of the allegations were based on inadequate data or a lack of familiarity with Postal Service policies and procedures. The Service followed established procedures in selecting the site for the facility; it made an adequate effort to identify all possible sites within the desired area and appeared to have selected the best site available. Although the original cost of the land to the seller was difficult to determine, the price the Service paid was reasonable. Requested zoning changes and unannounced purchase agreements were in accord with Service policy. It is unclear what impact, if any, the rezoning may have had on the price. The site is desirable from operational standards, is near major shopping areas, and is easily accessible to the public. However, high accident rates in the area may be an undesirable feature of the location. Because of the questions raised, the Postal Service agreed to consider possible alternatives. Two alternative sites were evaluated, but neither was acceptable because of extensive renovations required and the triangular configuration of the land.