Video: Unexpected opposition to group home

Larger screen

SKAGIT COUNTY, Wash. – An organization that cares for troubled boys says its kids are being unfairly targeted from an unlikely source.

Secret Harbor is one of three group homes in Skagit County for abused and neglected boys.

"We're basically saving Washington state's most needy kids," said Secret Harbor director Brian Carroll.

A home in Sedro-Woolley would be the fourth Secret Harbor home, housing six boys.

Carroll says it’s a perfect location.

"With the exception of a sprinkler system, it's pretty much a turnkey operation."

Secret Harbor did expect some opposition from neighbors, but what they didn't expect is that some of the greatest opposition would come from a church.

"What kind of Christianity is that? I believe that all of Gods people and everybody on the face of this earth deserves and opportunity and nowadays more than ever," said Joe Toussint, who owns the property of the proposed Secret Harbor home.

He is also the adoptive father of a boy who once lived in a group home.

During a public hearing a few weeks ago, he says the church pastor and several worshippers spoke out against Secret Harbor. As a result, the city hearing examiner denied the group home a permit to operate.

"It is flat out discrimination. There is no question about it. I mean, the federal law is so clear and the case law is so clear," said Carroll.

Late Tuesday, church pastor Jim Cannon said he worries about the safety of kids and worshippers at the church. He's not sure if the home is the best place to house troubled boys.

Secret Harbor is appealing the hearing examiner's decision and may file a discrimination lawsuit.