A "Merry Christmas" sign at a North Andover, Ma. fire station is stirring up some controversy, rather than promoting holiday cheer.

Andover town officials ordered firefighters to take down the homemade sign, because people complained.

The town manager said public buildings should not display things specific to a particular religion. But Chief William Martineau said the 50-year-old tradition has never been an issue.

"I think Christmas is officially a religious holiday. But to all of us, it has always been a holiday for the kids," Martineau said. "It just seems sad."

The decision comes a week after town officials voted to allow a Menorah display on the town common for only one day, instead of eight days of Hanukkah. According to the new town common policy, displays are only allowed to stay up for one day, no matter what they are.

A public hearing is scheduled to hear from residents.

Source: The Eagle Tribune