My prediction is collectively the old guard (whoever that is) will not support any significant changes and 'we' will continue to erode until the point is reached where something painful must be done. Once that happens the "old guard" will have a Fit
They will then try to come up with feasible solutions to the problems discussed but not acted upon for years. Too little too late.
Thinking a bit outside the SCCA box.
Why not entertain the thought of making certain open wheel classes, true novice classes? One where once certain criteria are met you must move on to another class? Folks may not be so quick to sink big money into a car/class they won't be able to race x years in the future. It will also keep newbies from getting discouraged and hanging up the helmet. The cost of entry could be much cheaper too with used cars always being on the market. Newbies can't fully exploit the benefits of all the whiz-bang bits---having the latest and greatest won't be too critical.
Something like once you win a Divisional Championship, 2 Majors or podium at the RunOffs or Sprints you can no longer race that class beginning the following season. Three seasons max in the class and you can still race it, but just not for points or awards. It would shake things up, but the running costs in those few selected to be labeled "novice" classes would decrease.
Flame away, it's okay. Wouldn't be the first sucky unpopular idea I've had. Just trying to come up with a solution instead of continuing to point out the problems.