Returns From Local Office Show No Decrease Over Business of 1924.

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Postal revenues, instead of being boosted by the increased postage rates which became effective April 15, are declining at the rate of more than $12,000,000 a year, it was indicated in a summary of receipts for May. Receipts of 50 selected post offices for May totaled $27,454,861, as com-compared with $290,838, 321 for April, and $29,085.090 for March.

These offices, which turn in more than half of the country’s total postal receipts, reported a decrease of more than $20,000 for each business day, as compared with March when the old rates were in effect. Postal officials are awaiting the June reports, which are expected to show whether the business decrease is temporary.

A summary of the effects of the heavier postage rates then will be prepared for presentation to the joint Congressional Postal Committee, which will hold hearings here July 20 looking to a permanent revision of rates to meet the $68,000,000 increase voted by the last Congress.

Newark, N. J., reported the largest increase in receipts for May, as compared with May a year ago, 19.65per cent, while Akron and Dayton were second and third. Four others, Pittsburg, Des Moines, Rochester and Syracuse, showed decreases in receipts.

While this decrease in revenue applies to the larger cities Postmaster L. B. Krook states that the increase in the postal rate is not affecting the business of the local office. There has been no dropping off of business if anything, there has been an increase.

New Ulm Review,

June 17, 1925

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