Republican Agriculture Commissioner Candidate Sid Miller, left, listens to issues from Doug Lewis and Bob Lewis, both of Lewis Wines in Johnson City, and Chris Brundrett, right, of William Chris Wines in Hye. – Standard-Radio Post/Ken Esten Cooke
The Texas Hill Country Wineries organization sponsored a legislative briefing and tour for agricultural commissioner candidates.
Republican Sid Miller was in attendance and was updated on issues facing the wine and viticulture industry, and was given a tour of some local operations. (An invitation was extended to Democratic candidate Jim Hogan, but the candidate did not respond.)
Miller, who toured with State Rep. Doug Miller (no relation), said he was made aware of the wine and grape industry.
“Doug’s district is the epicenter of the Texas wine industry,” Miller said. “We’ve been listening to winery owners and grape growers to see how the Texas Department of Agriculture can better serve them and their needs, and help Texas grow jobs in rural areas.”
A group of wine industry owners toured the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Viticulture and Fruit Lab for a research briefing, then toured the William Chris Vineyards, had lunch at Hye Market and toured Becker Vineyards.
Miller said he would refocus the TDA’s priorities to put water issues atop its concerns, along with border security, nutritional programs, weights and measures and other TDA issues.
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