Ask CITYVIEW

What is the USPS’s reason for removing mailboxes outside post offices? 

The reader who wrote in with this question stated that the mailbox outside of the West Suburban branch on N.W. 108th Street in Clive was removed to fix a broken lock, but the post office later stated that the mailbox is not returning. Then, two mailboxes were removed outside of the main post office on Second Avenue in Des Moines. This left one mailbox for people planning to go north after dropping off mail. This caused confusion for those who wanted to turn left and go south after mailing a letter, causing drivers to go the wrong way down Second Avenue. 

The reader spoke with a front-counter agent at the main post office. The agent said they were aware and alarmed by this. She also stated that postal employees are not responsible for the removals, and the order came from Washington, D.C. The agent said the postal workers’ union is fighting to get the box on Second Avenue returned. 

The removal of the blue mailboxes is due to several reasons, according to the USPS. The main reason for the change has been due to security concerns, as this operation is part of “Project Safe Delivery.”

How long can an elected official run for office while still holding a job in government? 

Elected officials across Iowa have been announcing races left, right and center ahead of the 2026 midterms. Rob Sand, the state’s auditor, is running for governor. Ashley Hinson, IA-3 House representative, is running for the senate. Are they required to resign from their current positions while running for another office?

In some states, the answer would be yes. In Iowa, it is no. Five states have “resign to run” laws: Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii and Texas. Arguments for the measures include that they should not divide their time in office between their official duties and their personal advancement, and officeholders can unfairly leverage their present position against other candidates. 

Arguments against say this can disproportionately affect those for whom public service is a full-time job. For these individuals, quitting their present position to campaign may not be a financially viable option. It can also make elections less competitive, because they can discourage local and down-ballot officeholders from seeking higher offices. Also, the U.S. Constitution does not require an officeholder to resign from another office in order to run for Congress. 

Is the construction on Fleur Drive completed?

Yes. ♦