Local transit and senior dining services report rising demand and funding pressures

Representatives from the Rural Office of Community Service briefed commissioners on transit and dining operations and funding pressures.

Andrea Irwin of Rock Transit Service said the program provides demand‑response transportation across Lincoln County with wheelchair‑accessible vehicles and noted rising demand and cost pressures. "Last year, we serviced 14,668 rides in Lincoln County. This year, with 5 months still left to go, we're already at over 11,000 rides," she said, adding that federal and state funding do not cover all operating costs and that the service is exploring advertising and fundraising to help offset expenses.

Kaylene Gearing, director of dining services in Canton, summarized meal counts and operations at the senior center. She reported May meal counts around 842 and explained state changes and a recent staff retirement had affected operations. Gearing described the center’s suggested‑donation policy and said meals are provided regardless of whether individuals donate: "We do not make anybody pay...We ask a suggested donation of $5...So whether they pay or not, we will serve them a meal," she said.

Commissioners asked follow‑up questions about projected declines or changes in meal counts and transit scheduling; presenters described fiscal‑year timing differences that affected year‑to‑year comparisons. No county funding decision was made at the meeting.