The funds are being awarded through the Connecticut Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP). STEAP provides financial assistance for projects that encourage economic development and preserve the character of the state’s less-populated towns.

Morris will use the grant to close the landfill in accordance with state Department of Environmental Protection standards and to make additions at the transfer station to enable bulky waste to be moved off-site.

“No town, large or small, is immune from the need to provide such essential services as trash disposal,” Governor Rell said. “Unfortunately, smaller towns can sometimes find themselves at a disadvantage, because in choosing to retain their character they may have forgone the added tax revenues brought by development and growth. The STEAP grants restore that balance and promote my goals of preserving the rich quality of life in Connecticut.”

“This is a vital project for the town of Morris,” said state Representative Craig Miner (R-66). “Not only will it allow the town to move ahead with closing the landfill, it will set the stage for effective management of its trash in the future. That’s good news for residents and good news for their local tax bills.”

State Senator Andrew Roraback (R-30) added: “The beautiful landscape of northwest Connecticut is one of the region’s greatest assets. Preserving open space and farmland and safeguarding our rural heritage is a responsibility for our generation – a debt we owe to the future. I am very pleased this project is moving ahead. ”

More than $19.7 million in STEAP funds for 72 towns were proposed for approval on the Bond Commission agenda Friday. The funds will enable 83 projects across the state to move forward.