While Mono Supervisors claim the Inyo Mono Area Agency on Aging unfairly serves more Inyo County senior citizens than Mono, others say service is based on actual need.

Mammoth Lakes, the major population center in Mono, has historically declined most senior services – from senior lunches to home visits. Mammoth's income level has outstripped Bishop, for instance, and has not created much of a demand for senior services.

On the other hand, more elderly, frail and poor have asked for service in Bishop and Inyo County. Records at IMAAA do reveal that Inyo County has historically contributed more to IMAAA. Last year, Mono gave around $14,000 and Inyo gave $177,000.

A budget shortfall has caused officials to take a more critical look at IMAAA services and costs. Mono does not want to pay half of the shortfall. As our reporter Tony Dublino said, the Mono Supervisors heard a report from Assistant CAO Tom Wallace who said that Inyo has 68% senior citizens and Mono, 32% yet Mono gets less than 15% of the IMAAA service.

Others point out that these figures are from the census and that real need and service is based on what actually happens through IMAAA.

Sadly, the price of gasoline has once more caused higher expenses, plus the state has cut revenue.

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