Guam - Services for Guam's senior citizens will be provided by village mayors beginning Thursday, March 1, 2012. Acting Governor Ray Tenorio signed a Memorandum of Understanding between the Department of Public Health and Social Services and the Mayors Council of Guam at 4pm. today to ensure the continuity of services for Guam's senior citizens.

"The administration feels this is the most viable option to ensuring our senior citizens are properly cared for. We believe our mayors are truly in touch with our manamko' and we know they will provide the best care for the elderly," Acting Governor Tenorio said. "We are so grateful our village leaders were so enthusiastic about coming forward and accepting this responsibility, especially during these financially trying times. They were willing to help and were willing to work within our budget limitations."

Under the MOU, which is an initial 3-month contract, $180,000 will be provided to the Mayor's Council to provide services with an option to renew until September 30, 2012.

Lawmakers worked with administration and Public Health officials and provided several solutions in an effort to avoid legislative action.

"We wanted to resolve this issue quickly," DPHSS Director James Gillan said. "We thank Senator Dennis Rodriguez, Jr. for working quickly to introduce legislation. He cares about our manamko' like we do and we thank him for his quick action. We all agree that this is the most financially viable option for this time and we look forward to working with our village mayors."