a simple solution would be to have region specific forums. like gen1/2, gen3, voi, etc. just make 125? new sections for each region at the bottom of the forum & make the admin of the sections the leaders of the area or w/e you decide.
quick and clean, and keeps everyone on the same site using only one set of login and pw & PM, etc.
separate site makes no sense if you have control over your regions section.
maybe separate calendar per region section too. all of this can be added/customized.
and all of this would fall under the national vca budget.
you could even do regional advertising specific to that forum section. detailer in GA that specialises in viper detailing? perfect, sign him up for advertising in the GA section. etc.
just some ideas from an IT/Operations Director