Katy Fire Chief Retires After 29 Years; City Appoints First Female Chief as Interim
The City of Katy marked the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter as Fire Chief Kenneth Parker officially retired after 29 years of service. On January 30, a gathering of family, friends, and current and former firefighters came together to honor his decades of leadership and commitment.
As part of the ceremony, the Katy Fire Department Honor Guard lowered the flag one final time under Chief Parker’s command. It was a meaningful moment for those who served beside him—a quiet but powerful farewell to a career that helped shape the department into what it is today.
Chief Parker leaves behind a fire department that has grown from a volunteer-based team to a professional agency equipped with modern apparatus and highly trained personnel. From emergency response to community outreach, the department’s role has expanded significantly over the years under his leadership.
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New Leadership: Dana Massey Steps into Historic Role
Following Parker’s retirement, Dana Massey has been named Interim Fire Chief, becoming the first woman to hold the position in Katy’s history. Her appointment was confirmed during the January 26 City Council meeting.
Mayor Pro-Tem Chris Harris acknowledged Massey’s depth of knowledge, saying, “Congratulations to Dana. I know anytime I’ve ever had a question, she doesn’t even have to look it up—she already has the answer.”
Massey brings well over 20 years of experience with the Katy Fire Department. Having started her career as a firefighter, she rose through the ranks to become Assistant Chief of EMS and Training. Her long service includes not only emergency response but also mentoring new recruits and participating in community events. In 2021, she was named Employee of the Year.
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Looking Ahead While Honoring the Past
Once operated entirely by volunteers, it now serves the city and surrounding areas with full-time staff and advanced equipment, including aerial ladder trucks, ambulances, and rescue boats. While the tools have changed, the department’s mission remains rooted in public service, safety, and connection to the community.
As the city thanks Chief Parker for nearly three decades of dedication, the community also looks ahead with Interim Chief Massey stepping into her new role. With deep experience and a steady presence, she represents both continuity and progress for a department that’s been serving Katy for generations.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.