HOUSTON -- Sergeant Shelby Stewart told the city council he’s not allowed to wear a Houston police uniform because of his beard.

He said that the department told him that the beard must go because a gas mask won’t fit over it.

But on Wednesday, Steward and Sergeant Kenneth Perkins told council that the mask fits over their beards.

Both said they can’t shave because of a painful skin condition.

But last summer, the police chief enforced the facial hair policy and took them and two other officers off the streets.

The police won’t comment because those officers have filed a lawsuit claiming discrimination.

“(It’s) disheartening, disappointing, embarrassed. It’s just something that never should have ever happened,” said Sgt. Perkins.

Houston City Council heard from those officers while debating whether to spend $150,000 on private attorneys to defend the no-beard policy.

Officer Raul Collins says he’s suing to get back on the street.

The Mayor is now suggesting mediation without going before a judge.

“The mayor is on the right track with this,” said Stewart.

It is cautious optimism even as this beard battle, heads to court.