In the case of an operator that is serving a nonurbanized area, and that was eligible for funds under this article during the 1978–79 fiscal year even though not required to be in compliance with Section 99268 or that commenced operation after that fiscal year, the operator shall be eligible for those funds in any fiscal year, commencing with claims for the 1980–81 fiscal year, if it maintains, for the fiscal year, a ratio of fare revenues to operating cost, as defined by subdivision (a) of Section 99247, at least equal to one-tenth.