Title
a Approve and Authorize the Chief Information Officer (CIO) to submit a State and Local Cybersecurity Grant application to California Office of Emergency Services for the provision of funding to offset the costs associated with improving cybersecurity posture; and
b. Authorize the CIO to sign the necessary documents to accept the funding if awarded.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
a Approve and Authorize the Chief Information Officer (CIO) to submit a State and Local Cybersecurity Grant application to California Office of Emergency Services for the provision of funding to offset the costs associated with improving cybersecurity posture; and
b. Authorize the CIO to sign the necessary documents to accept the funding if awarded.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
The Cal Office of Emergency Services State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program is a federally funded program administered by California Office of Emergency Services that supports eligible local governments in strengthening cybersecurity resilience through planning, assessment, mitigation, and workforce development. Cyber threats targeting local governments continue to increase in frequency and sophistication, posing significant risks to County operations, sensitive data, and the continuity of critical public services. Cybersecurity planning, assessment, implementation, and incident response capabilities are essential for the county as stewards of confidential data supporting the programs across the county. The proposed grant, if awarded, will offset the costs associated with the implementation of a data classification and data loss prevention solution that will further tighten the county’s cybersecurity posture and reduce cyber risk. If the County is selected for funding, any required agreements, matching commitments or procurement actions requiring Board approval will be brought forward for consideration and approval.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT/COMMITTEE ACTIONS:
County Counsel and the budget office have reviewed and approved this recommended action
FINANCING:
Grant funds would be expended in accordance with program requirements and subject to reimbursement based on allowable costs that include at 30% match requirement by the county. Any ongoing operational or maintenance costs associated with implemented solutions would be evaluated and addressed through future budget processes to ensure long-term fiscal sustainability.
____ Well-Being and Quality of Life
X Sustainable Infrastructure for the Present and Future
____ Safe and Resilient Communities
____ Diverse and Thriving Economy
____ Dynamic Organization and Employer of Choice
Prepared by: Sarah House, IT Manager, 759-6992
Approved by: Eric A. Chatham, Chief Information Officer, 759-6920