A Nativity scene in a Woodland, Washington, park was removed Tuesday after city officials said they received complaints questioning the Christmas display’s presence on public land.
Officials said the Nativity scene, featuring a manger, baby Jesus, Joseph, Mary, the three wise men, an angel, and several genuflecting animals, would be moved to a privately-owned vacant lot.
The decision came after the city’s attorney advised officials that keeping the display on public property was a violation of federal and state laws.
“I wouldn’t have chosen to do this, but it’s in the best interest of the city to do so,” Mayor Will Finn told Fox 12. “The feedback I’m getting is that it’s in a better spot.” Finn said the new location is a more visible spot.
The Nativity scene itself is privately owned…
The city had allowed it to be displayed at Horseshoe Lake Park for the past few decades, with Finn estimating the manger had been set up in the park every holiday season for the last 40 years.
In recent weeks, however, the city reportedly received several complaints about the religious scene. City Administrator Peter Boyce said he received at least 5 complaints since the display was erected earlier this month.
Boyce said Tuesday the town is now receiving dozens of complaints from residents upset to see the Nativity scene removed from the park.