Cross and star debate continued in La Crescent on Tuesday

Those in favor outnumbered those against having symbols remain 4-to-1

LA CRESCENT, Minn. — Tuesday was the big day where a group from Madison was going to blow through La Crescent and demand a lighted cross and star on public land be removed.

The message “I live by the star and the cross,” could be seen on yard signs throughout La Crescent.

Many people at a city council hearing Tuesday wore T-shirts bearing that phrase, and they want lighted holiday symbols on a hill to stay in place. The speakers in favor of keeping the star and cross outnumbered those who want them moved by about 4-to-1.

Chuck West was one of the Lions Club members who erected the display years ago, and he wants the symbols to remain.  

Some said they don’t want outsiders telling La Crescent what to do. The La Crescent city council took public comments for just over 30 minutes. The next chance the council would have to discuss the issue is at a regular meeting in two weeks.