HOUSTON – The facial hair fight between some Houston police officers and the department ended up before city council members on Tuesday.   

About a dozen people showed up at the meeting to talk about the police department’s mandatory policy which requires that all officers must be clean shaven.

One by one, the officers against the policy told City Council that it should be changed. They said the policy discriminated against many black men who suffer from skin conditions that make shaving painful.  They also said that it discourages young African Americans from joining the police academy.

"We would like to encourage them because we want the best in Houston to become police officers.  This way we can get the best service and protection. But if these things keep coming up, it’s going to be difficult," said Deloyd Parker, community activist.

HPD claimed the policy is for the officer’s protection.  They said a beard prevents an officer's gas mask from sealing.

The issue is now in mediation. But another meeting is scheduled for Monday, and the city attorney is optimistic they can come up with a resolution.