Staff: cyberattack hindered OHV grant launch; program steps up outreach and checklist controls

Program staff updated the Commission on Off‑Highway Vehicles on grant administration and outreach, saying the Aug. 25 grant round launch coincided with a cyberattack that limited email and web outreach and depressed training attendance.

Staff reported 15 open grants with seven slated to close by year‑end; they said the program is finalizing two oldest grants and working to be current. The cyberattack limited use of the listserv and access to the website on the day of the grant opening, staff said, forcing a constrained launch and fewer applicants and training attendees than expected. Staff noted a training on Oct. 16 and a final application deadline of Oct. 26.

To prevent incomplete applications, staff described three new checks: increased training, application review during a feedback period, and additional Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) review. Staff said they will require updated landowner letters, current letters of support and a more comprehensive checklist; two program staff members will independently check incoming applications for completeness. The TAC was tentatively scheduled for Dec. 1 to vet completeness standards and to annotate which funding categories each proposal addresses.

Staff also outlined outreach improvements: new DMV registration handouts with QR codes, a promotional rack card and a trifold brochure with program and safety information. Commissioners volunteered to distribute materials at races and events (e.g., mid‑October Las Vegas area events, Laughlin events Oct. 17‑18) and urged staff to produce simple, portable cards or table displays for booths.

There was no formal action on the update; commissioners asked staff to continue outreach, send alternate revenue modeling to the finance team and provide TAC materials ahead of the December review.

What happens next: staff to continue outreach and materials distribution, implement the two‑person completeness checklist, and send TAC requirements for the tentative Dec. 1 meeting.