Las Vegas RDA approves $100,000 security grant program for small businesses
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Summary
The Redevelopment Agency voted to create a $100,000 Security Grant Incentive Program to provide up to 20 grants of $5,000 to small businesses affected by roadway construction or property theft; applications will require proof of incident and are initially structured as reimbursements.
The Redevelopment Agency of the City of Las Vegas on April 16 approved a $100,000 Security Grant Incentive Program to provide financial assistance to small businesses affected by roadway improvement projects and property theft.
The program, which the agency tied to Redevelopment Areas 1 and 2 and to Wards 13 and 5, will fund up to 20 grants of as much as $5,000 each. The agency also approved a related resolution authorizing the executive director to approve and issue grant awards under the program.
Dina Babsky, director of economic and urban development, told the agency the proposal updates an earlier program funded with American Rescue Plan Act dollars. “Back when we were awarded the ARPA funds … we established a security program to assist small businesses,” Babsky said, adding that the earlier effort “was very, very successful.” She said the previous program distributed about $1.5 million in ARPA funds and offered grants of up to $10,000.
Under the program guidelines presented, applicants must provide proof of a qualifying security incident — such as a police report, insurance claim or video evidence. For impacts tied to roadway construction, staff will verify that the business has frontage on the road under construction and that timelines align with the reported impact. Eligible purchases listed include permanent fencing, security camera upgrades, exterior lighting, locks and security enclosures to protect HVAC or copper components.
Council members raised practical questions about program administration. Councilwoman Diaz thanked staff and said the funding will not meet all need in her district but called the proposal helpful. Mayor Pro Tem asked whether grants would be paid upfront or by reimbursement; Babsky said the current guideline is reimbursement but staff will evaluate alternatives because some businesses cannot front costs. Councilmember Summers Armstrong urged the agency to consider invoicing vendors directly so businesses without upfront funds can receive equipment without a pass-through.
The agency voted to approve the program and the accompanying resolution. The agency directed staff to post the application when the program is in effect; Babsky said Leah Williams in her office will be the contact for applicants.
The agency will fund the program from the RDA special revenue fund. Staff noted awards would be aligned to the RDA fiscal year (July 1–June 30) and that applications could be considered for incidents occurring since July 1, 2024.
Details about the application process, the full program guidelines, and any future changes to reimbursement policy will be posted by economic and urban development staff.