NEW YORK STATE -- The U.S. Postal Service is proposing consolidating some of its services, mainly moving Utica, Watertown and Binghamton's process of sorting outgoing mail to Syracuse.

The first of the three information sessions was in Utica Monday night where the main concerns were slower services, job losses and higher transportation costs. Other proposals are shortening hours, combining branches and issuing fewer varieties of stamps.

"Right now, it's just a challenging time for the post office and we need to make some business decision that will keep the postal service afloat," said Maureen Marion, U.S. Postal Service Public Affairs Officer.

"The people in the outlying areas might have some problems with getting their mail. It might take a little longer, but I can understand why they're doing it cost-wise. People coming to the post office, I think it's a thing of the past," said Jocelyn Mejias, Watertown resident.

There will be two more meetings this week to discuss the consolidation proposals: one in Watertown and the other in Binghamton.

If you're interested in attending those hearings:

Wednesday, May 20 at 4:30 p.m.
Dulles State Office Building
317 Washington Street
Watertown

Thursday, May 21 at 4:30 p.m.
Binghamton City School District's Community Room
164 Hawley Street
Binghamton