Harwinton Officials Applaud Grant for Emergency Operations Center

Harwinton – Local officials applauded the state’s approval of $325,000 for the construction of a municipal emergency operations center (EOC). State Senator Kevin Witkos (R-Canton) and State Representative John Piscopo (R-Harwinton, Thomaston) congratulated the town on their award at a press conference on the grounds of the future EOC on Wednesday, May 21.

“This is an exciting day for the town of Harwinton,” said Rep. Piscopo.  “The new facility to be constructed will house both the emergency management center/team and the Harwinton Ambulance Association.  I commend First Selectman Michael Criss, the Harwinton Ambulance Association, and our town officials and leaders for their commitment to improving emergency services for our residents, in order to facilitate immediate care for those in need.”

The EOC space will be shared with the Harwinton Ambulance Association to better facilitate emergency operations and communication during an emergency event. The planning and design work has previously been completed and this project has been approved by DECD.

“Harwinton like many rural communities struggles to undertake big municipal construction projects.  This public safety necessity is vital and I am very pleased the state recognized the need.  An emergency operations center is a lifeline for residents during a disaster.  This funding will make the project a reality,” said Sen. Welch.

“This grant will provide much needed support to help Harwinton expand its emergency operations,” said Sen. Witkos. “The safety of residents is a top priority for all town officials and state legislators. With a new emergency operations center, the town can provide additional support during the most difficult and trying times. From dangerous weather events to hazmat situations, Harwinton’s emergency operations team is there to protect those in need, and this funding will further enhance our town’s ability to protect and support all residents.”

First Selectman Michael Criss stated that the award of the grant reflects a lot of hard work, not only from Criss himself but from the Governor’s office and State Legislators who assisted in the process and recognized the importance of emergency operations and safety in our community.  These funds will assist in off-setting the town’s cost of the project which was approved by referendum in April.  Criss went on to thank the Governor and his staff for his assistance and guidance through the application process and further thanks to Rep. John Piscopo for his continued support since this project began.  This is a big win for the town of Harwinton and its residents.

The STEAP funding, directed through the State Bond Commission, is overseen by the Office of Policy and Management and funds economic development, community conservation and quality of life projects for localities that are ineligible to receive Urban Action bonds.

Harwinton is one of 27 towns throughout Connecticut receiving a STEAP grant award announced this week for the purposes of funding a variety of economic development, community conservation and quality-of-life projects.

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Photos from left to right: Sen.Witkos, Rep. Piscopo, Harwinton First Selectman Michael Criss, and Harwinton Fire Chief Scott Kellogg.