In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated. Terms Defined. “Applicant” means a State or local governmental entity requesting financial assistance under this chapter. “Construction” means either physically installing a new solid waste processing or disposal facility, or rehabilitating or improving an existing facility. “Department” means the Maryland Department of the Environment. “Financial assistance” means grants, loans, or loan guarantees approved by the State's Board of Public Works. “Local governmental entity” means a county, municipality, sanitary commission, or a regional solid waste authority. “Secretary” means the Secretary of the Environment. “Solid waste disposal facility” means a sanitary landfill or any other facility which is used for the final disposal of solid waste. “Solid waste processing facility” means an incinerator, transfer station, resource recovery plant, composting facility, or any other combination of structures, machinery, or devices used to reduce or alter the volume, chemical characteristics, or physical characteristics of solid waste before disposal or use.