Protests come with Rell's decision

Hamden (WTNH) - Holding flags and protest signs, workers marched in front of the High Meadows facility in Hamden. They're protesting against the governor's decision to shut their doors even though funding for the facility was included in the budget.

High Meadows is a state-run residential treatment program for troubled boys. The union said they provide unique treatment that cannot be found anywhere else in Connecticut.

"The governor may not skirt, the governor may not circumvent the full and clear intention of the General Assembly of the state of Connecticut and that intention is to have High Meadows open its doors and once again begin accepting outpatients," said one protestor.

"We will continue to fight on behalf of these boys, children that need our support, we've all us, working together, fighting together, bring us this far," said another protestor.

High Meadows can accommodate up to 42 boys; 31 were living there when the closure was announced. The state has said closing the facility will save $6-million a year. DCF has also said they want to close their doors as part of a plan to privatize residential care.