The Social Security branch office here has placed a sign on its doors, notifying Citrus County residents that its office here will close on June 30.

"Effective June 30, we will no longer provide service at this location," the sign reads. "Please consider using our convenient online services."

The office directs visitors to the online web service for Social Security at www. socialsecurity.gov.

Services listed on the door placard include:

• Apply for Social Security benefits for Medicare
• Get a retirement benefit estimate
• Use the benefit planner to calculate retirement, disability and survivor benefits
• Change you address, telephone number or direct-deposit information
• Request a replacement Medicare card.

The sign invites Citrus County residents to call 1-800-772-1213, or visit the Social Security Office in Ocala at 217 S.E. First Ave.

"This is a crock," said County Commissioner J.J. Kenney at the county commission's April 26 meeting. "It's just another kick at our seniors in this community."

Kenney said that it will be a financial hardship for county residents to have to drive to Ocala just to get served, and noted that many seniors perhaps shouldn't be on the road. Things are worse, he noted, because of the rising price of gasoline.