TO: AC Transit Board of Directors
FROM: Michael A. Hursh, General Manager/Chief Executive Officer
SUBJECT: Application for FY 2023 Transit Security Grant Program
ACTION ITEM
AGENDA PLANNING REQUEST: ☐
RECOMMENDED ACTION(S):
Title
Consider authorizing the General Manager or his designee to file and execute applications and funding agreements with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Transit Security Grant Program (TSGP) to enhance the security of the District’s operating divisions and administrative building by strengthening cyber security.
Staff Contact:
Chris Andrichak, Chief Financial Officer
Body
STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE:
Goal - Financial Stability and Resiliency
Initiative - Financial Efficiency and Revenue Maximization
The TSGP funds will provide funding for the implementation of security controls and installation of security measures such as strengthening the security of application software to proactively prevent cyber security attacks.
BUDGETARY/FISCAL IMPACT:
Staff plans to apply for up to $1,000,000 for this project. No matching funds are required for this grant program.
BACKGROUND/RATIONALE:
DHS has issued a Notice of Funding Opportunity to provide $93 million for the FY 2023 funding cycle to provide funds to eligible public transportation systems for the protection of critical transportation infrastructure and the travelling public from acts of terrorism and to increase the resilience of transit infrastructure.
Staff proposes applying for funding for implementation of security controls based on a comprehensive risk register maintained by the organization. The objective of the project is to strengthen the security of application software and address any supply-chain gaps that may be exploited for cyberterrorism attacks. The project's purpose is to proactively protect AC Transit's infrastructure and operations from potential cyber threats.
The cyberterrorism attacks against the District can be perpetrated through different channels to disrupt or halt operational capability, misrepresent reputation and cause harm to employees and the general public.
ADVANTAGES/DISADVANTAGES:
Staff cannot identify any disadvantages to applying for the funds. Not applying would cause the District to forgo the opportunity of competing for TSGP funds to upgrade cyber security across the District. The District needs to protect its employees, assets and properties from potential security threats.
There are no disadvantages to approving this staff report.
ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS:
Project eligibility for TSGP funds focuses on meeting the two national priorities of enhancing cybersecurity and enhancing protection of soft targets/crowded areas.
Staff considered other security projects such as active shooter training, but the proposed project closely meets the criteria of the grant and also represents the highest need of the District.
PRIOR RELEVANT BOARD ACTION/POLICIES:
None
ATTACHMENTS:
None
Prepared by:
Seema Prasad, Senior Capital Planning Specialist
In Collaboration with:
Tas Jalali, Information Technology Manager
Approved/Reviewed by:
Richard Oslund, Director of Management & Budget
Ahsan Baig, Chief Information Officer
Chris Andrichak, Chief Financial Officer
Jill A. Sprague, General Counsel/Chief Legal Officer