Kimberly Enfield, recently appointed as acting postmaster at the Bristol post office, wants to convey a clear message to all Bristol area residents: “We are still open for business!” Since coming to Bristol from Goshen in May, Kim has been distressed by questions from individuals about whether the facility is still in operation.

Kim is assisted at the Bristol office by Kay Kintigh, a retail clerk. Although listed as a part time employee, Kay can work up to 56 hours a week, if needed. Both Kim and Kay want customers to know that post office hours continue the same as always: 9:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon on Saturday. They do not plan to close during the lunch hour, as was the case last summer.

When asked about the future of the Bristol post office, Kim responds that “it all comes down to revenue.” A facility that takes in enough revenue to pay its bills will have a better chance of surviving possible future closings, she says.

Kim noted that some small area post offices are losing money, even though some have only a postmaster, and no clerks. Rural deliveries have been moved from these facilities, in the same way that Bristol rural carriers were moved to Elkhart in January 2010.

Bristol revenues declined with that consolidation, partly because any stamps sold or packages handled by the carriers now produce revenue for Elkhart, not Bristol. Income at the Bristol service counter has declined somewhat, perhaps because of the uncertainty about hours and continued operation.

When asked about the current building, Kim said that the lease, which expires at the end of 2010, has not yet been renewed. This matter is not handled locally, but by officials at the Greater Indiana District of the USPS.

There are many concerned citizens who are hoping the Bristol post office can escape the closures that the U.S. Postal Service is considering in its long-range cost-cutting plans. The most important action such persons can take is to patronize the Bristol post office, while encouraging others to do the same.

Kim and Kay sincerely appreciate the friendliness and patience of their local patrons. They are determined to continue providing the friendly, helpful, and courteous service that has been a hallmark of the Bristol post office in the past.