On Tuesday evening, the City Council opted to take no action on George & Nancy Nutting's request to include a Nativity Scene within the Christmas decorations for Willis Park this season. Mayor Mark Harrell cited the need for further study of the issue and the lack of time to do so for the 2006 season.
The Nuttings stated they were prepared to purchase the scene and give it to the city for display or set it up themselves. They stated they consulted several sources including City Attorney Tom Conger and were told it was legal to have the Nativity Scene displayed.
A 5 minute video.
Coucilman Luther Conyers challenged the Nuttings asking if they would also purchase a display for Hanukkah and "Would you pay for one for Kwanzaa?" and "Would you pay for one for hispanics?" They stated they would if they had to. The Nuttings indicated they would do whatever it took to accomplish their goal of a Nativity Scene in Willis Park.
Mayor Harrell stated there were legal opinions that fell on both sides of the issue and more research was needed. He also stated he wants the Council to have time to carefully consider issues rather than make a decision on an issue when first presented. Mayor Harrell stated they would consider this for future years at the Council retreat held in March of next year.
(I had hoped the Council would put themselves out there on this but they opted not to. I would also add there were few people that showed up to support the issue and not enough to make a difference.-LS)
Perhaps a downtown landlord would donate a vacant storefront for the display?
