High court to consider Woodinville Tent City permit case

The state Supreme Court on Wednesday agreed to hear the case of a Woodinville church that says religious freedom gave it the right to host Tent City 4 two years ago, despite the city's argument that it didn't have the proper permit.

Northshore United Church of Christ hosted the homeless encampment in summer 2006, fending off the city's legal challenges during the camp's three-month stay.

But last summer, long after the camp had left, a state appeals court ruled that the camp should never have moved to the United Church of Christ without getting a city permit. The church appealed the decision to the Supreme Court.

Church officials say they're "absolutely thrilled" the state's highest court is taking the case, which they hope will lead to a decision about the limits of religious expression.

"There are bigger issues here besides our little church," said Paige Armentrout, the Northshore church moderator.

Woodinville city officials said they were disappointed by the court's decision to hear the case. "This has gone on for a long time, and we had hoped it would be resolved," said Greg Rubstello, an attorney for the city.

The court may hear oral arguments in the case as soon as next month, but it could take up to a year for the court to issue a decision.

Ashley Bach: 206-464-2567 or abach@seattletimes.com