Panel endorses resolution to designate El Paso the ‘boot capital’ of Texas

The Senate Committee on Administration voted to report favorably a concurrent resolution declaring El Paso the ‘‘boot capital of Texas,’' a ceremonial designation intended to honor the city’s boot-making tradition and promote local economic benefits.

Senator Blanca (first name not specified in the committee record) laid out SCR 29 and described El Paso’s long history of handcrafted boot manufacturing, citing brands named in testimony such as Lucchese, Tony Lama, Blackjack Boots, Rocket Buster and Caboots. Jose Padilla, director of sales and marketing for Blackjack Boots, told the committee that El Paso ‘‘has been the world's mecca for boot making for over a century’’ and described a close-knit community of craftsmen who produce handcrafted boots using techniques ‘‘that no machine can ever duplicate.’' He added, ‘‘El Paso Bootmakers are a special breed.’'

Renee Wong, director of marketing communications for Destination El Paso, said the designation would enhance tourism and economic development by amplifying the city’s reputation for authentic, handmade boots and noted local proclamations and letters of support from industry and civic groups. The committee substitute for SCR 29 was moved out of committee and, on a roll call, the clerk recorded five ayes and zero nays; the resolution will be reported favorably to the full Senate.

The committee’s action is ceremonial: SCR 29 is a resolution recognizing El Paso’s contribution to Texas craftsmanship and does not enact regulatory or funding changes.