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Hendry County reports progress on mailbox kiosk program; staff to draft agreements for Montura and Wheeler sites
Summary
County staff told commissioners they are advancing plans to add kiosk-style cluster mailboxes in Wheeler and Montura, with county to front costs for Montura boxes and seek reimbursement; staff will return with site layouts, cost estimates and draft MOU language.
County staff on Sept. 8 updated the Board of County Commissioners on multi-site efforts to replace failing cluster mailboxes and install kiosk-style postal units in several unincorporated communities.
“For Montura the idea is the county would up-front the cost of the boxes and structure and be reimbursed in full,” County Administrator Jennifer Davis said. Davis told the board staff is continuing discussions with the postmaster, the Central County Water Control District and the U.S. Postal Service on layouts, maintenance and key issuance.
Shane Parker, public works director, said the county will survey proposed locations and coordinate site plans so mail carriers can access kiosks safely and residents can park. Staff cited a previous 2021 estimate for reconfiguring 1,140 boxes in Montura at $30,008.99 and an updated price provided to staff of $35,001.90; staff also cited a rough kiosk estimate of about $15,000 for some stand-alone units, but said more detailed bids are needed.
Davis said the county is not asking for a motion now; instead staff will continue design, coordinate with the post office and bring an MOU or interlocal agreement back for board approval once details and costs are confirmed.
Why it matters: Many rural Hendry County residents told the board that failing box infrastructure has disrupted mail delivery. County leaders said the work addresses an essential service and staff is seeking to identify a configuration and funding approach that will provide secure, dry, and accessible mail delivery while minimizing cost to other taxpayers.
