Austin — State Senator Robert Nichols (R-Jacksonville) yesterday gave the keynote address at the Farm and Ranch Tour in Athens. His address focused on many issues including the changing population of Texas and what that means for the urban/rural balance of power in the statehouse.

"Ninety percent of Texas' explosive growth is in urban areas," said Nichols. "That's why rural legislators like myself are working so hard for your interests today. Tomorrow we won't have the numbers and seniority to be as effective as we are right now."

Nichols pointed out that with the high growth in urban areas there will be an increased need for water.

"We have it, and they need it," said Nichols. "That's why it's so important to protect East Texas' water rights, so that we can have a seat at the table when negotiating the distribution of this essential resource."

Nichols also stressed the need for fair treatment in school finance.

"Every Texas child deserves a quality education whether they live in an high rise or a farm," said Nichols. "We need to maintain a school finance system that provides for all children, not just those in property rich areas."

Nichols represent Senate District 3, which includes large parts of East Texas and Montgomery County.

###