Press Kit
Welcome to the official City of Kemah Press Kit — your one-stop source for accurate, up-to-date information when covering Kemah in the news. Whether you're preparing a story on our community, planning a visit, or reporting during an emergency, this page provides all the essential resources you need in one convenient place.
We’re committed to supporting members of the media with timely and transparent communication. If you need additional information, an interview, or urgent assistance during a developing situation, please don’t hesitate to reach out — we’re here to help you get the story right.
Alerts
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Facts About Kemah
Location: Galveston County, Texas — situated along the scenic Galveston Bay and Clear Lake, approximately 25 miles southeast of Houston.
Incorporation: 1965
Population: Approximately 1,990 residents (latest estimates)
Government: Mayor–Council form of government
Area: About 2 square miles of land
Economic Base: Tourism, dining, entertainment, boating, fishing, and small business retail
Signature Attractions: Kemah Boardwalk, Lighthouse District, waterfront dining, live music
Motto: “Gateway to the Bay”
Annual Visitors: More than 3 million per year, drawn by the waterfront charm, entertainment, and dining options
Pronunciation: KEE-muh
(rhymes with “see-muh”)
A Brief History of Kemah
Nestled along the shores of Galveston Bay, the City of Kemah has a proud maritime heritage that dates back to the early 1800s. Originally a small fishing village, the area grew as settlers were drawn to its access to water and trade routes. The name “Kemah,” meaning “wind in the face” in the Karankawa language, reflects the area's coastal spirit and connection to its natural surroundings.
Kemah officially incorporated in 1965, but its roots stretch back much further as a coastal settlement shaped by fishing, boating, and life along the bay. Originally a small community built around commercial shrimping and maritime trade, Kemah grew steadily thanks to its location, natural beauty, and strong sense of local pride.
Today, Kemah is known for its close-knit spirit, dedicated leadership, and unwavering commitment to public service. It remains a place where tradition matters, neighbors look out for one another, and visitors are welcomed with genuine Texas hospitality.
For much of the 20th century, Kemah’s economy was anchored in the commercial fishing and shrimping industries. Families made their living on the bay, and the waterfront was lined with working docks and seafood processors. But as those industries began to decline due to changes in regulation, environmental factors, and shifting markets, Kemah needed a new economic direction.
The opening of the Kemah Boardwalk in 1997 marked a turning point. Spearheaded by Landry’s Inc., the development transformed a once-industrial waterfront into a vibrant entertainment district. With its mix of restaurants, shops, amusement rides, and year-round events, the Boardwalk attracts millions of visitors, putting Kemah on the map as a Gulf Coast destination. The success of the Boardwalk sparked a wave of local investment, job creation, and increased visibility — shifting the city’s economic base from commercial fishing to tourism, hospitality, and small business growth.
Today, while Kemah still honors its fishing roots, tourism and visitor-driven activity play a central role in supporting city services, infrastructure, and long-term growth.
Mayor Robin Collins
Mayor Collins proudly serves as Mayor of the City of Kemah, bringing a deep commitment to public service, community values, and responsible leadership. A long-time resident and active participant in civic life, Mayor Collins is dedicated to preserving Kemah’s small-town character while guiding smart growth, infrastructure improvement, and emergency preparedness. With a strong focus on transparency, safety, and quality of life, Mayor Collins works closely with city staff, residents, and regional partners to ensure Kemah remains a safe, welcoming, and well-managed coastal community.
Councilman Darren Broadus
City Councilman Darren Broadus serves Position 1 on the City Council of Kemah and devotes additional civic leadership as the President of the Kemah Community Development Corporation (KCDC). As KCDC President, he guides key discussions and decisions around economic development and real estate matters, ensuring responsible growth and strategic use of city resources. Councilman Broadus is known for bringing thoughtful leadership to public service, working to balance transparency and local priorities with Kemah’s long‑term vision.
Councilman Dustin Oliver
City Councilman Dustin Oliver serves Position 2, beginning his term in May 2025 with a term lasting until May 2027. In addition to his council role, he contributes to the city’s future through his service as a board member of the Kemah Community Development Corporation (KCDC). Drawing on professional experience as a property assistant general manager at the Kemah Boardwalk, he brings a practical, business-minded approach to local government.
Mayor Pro Tem Doug Meisinger
City Councilman Doug Meisinger holds Position 3 and serves proudly as Mayor Pro Tem, offering steady leadership and civic dedication to the community. Elected in May 2024 with a term running through May 2026, he plays a key role in guiding the City through strategic governance and ensuring continuity in City Council operations. With an emphasis on community-focused service, Councilman Meisinger contributes to Kemah’s collaborative spirit to support effective policy making and municipal stewardship.
Councilman Lee Wallace
City Councilman Lee Wallace holds Position 4, having taken office in May 2025 with a term extending through May 2027. Councilman Wallace previously served on the board of the Municipal Management District No. 1, representing the Kemah Crossing community. He brings a steadfast commitment to inclusive representation, infrastructure, public safety, and quality of life — striving to ensure that all voices, especially those on Kemah’s west side, are heard and supported.
Councilman Isaac Saldana
City Councilman Isaac Saldaña represents Position 5. A former president of the Kemah Community Development Corporation (KCDC) with a reputation for inclusive leadership and strategic vision, Councilman Saldaña takes an active hand in important city development initiatives—including park enhancements, lighting improvements, and economic planning. His deep ties to the city are reflected in his dedication to both public service and neighborhood well-being, rooted in a longstanding commitment to Kemah’s traditions and future.
The City of Kemah Communications and Tourism Office is always happy to assist members of the media. Whether you’re looking to arrange an interview with city officials, verify facts, request official statements, or need background information on Kemah events, departments, or history, we’re here to help.
Our goal is to make your reporting as smooth and accurate as possible by serving as a reliable point of contact for timely information and coordination. Please don’t hesitate to reach out — we welcome the opportunity to support your coverage of our community.
Branding Guides
City of Kemah Branding Guides serve as references for staff, partners, and media to ensure the City’s brand elements are used accurately, consistently, and in a unified manner.
The Communications & Tourism team is available to assist with brand-related questions and to provide guidance that supports clear, consistent, and brand-appropriate communications. Please contact our office whenever you need clarification or support.
City of Kemah City Seal Guidelines
Discover Kemah Brand Guidelines
Logos and Seals
City Seal
60th Anniversary Logo (2025 use only)
Discover Kemah Logo
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City Hall and Court Closed for Martin Luther King Jr. Day
In observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, all Kemah City and Court offices will be closed on Monday, January 19, 2026. Offices will reopen for regular business on Tuesday, January 20 at 7:30 a.m. Read on... -
Kemah Business Alliance Kickoff Draws Partners, Resources, and New Opportunities
The City of Kemah hosted the Kemah Business Alliance Kickoff Meeting and Resource Fair, bringing together local business owners, managers, and community partners for a focused morning of connection, information-sharing, and planning for the future. Read on...
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City of Kemah Recognized as “We Hire Vets” Employer
The City of Kemah has been recognized as a “We Hire Vets” employer through the Texas Workforce Commission, in partnership with the Texas Veterans Commission. Read on... -
City Offices and Court to Close for New Year's Holiday
City of Kemah offices and the Kemah Municipal Court will close at 12:00 p.m. (noon) on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, in observance of the New Year holiday. Read on...
Point of Contact
Patti Jett, Communications and Tourism Coordinator
Email
Office 281.334.1611
City Cell 409.977.1763
Official Information Channels
Protocol for Media During Emergencies
- Formal Briefings: Conducted at designated times during active events. The exact schedule will be announced at the start of the incident and may be adjusted as conditions change.
- Press Inquiries: Preferred method is via email or text message to the designated Public Information Officer (PIO). Phone calls should be reserved for urgent, time-sensitive matters.
On-Site Access: Permitted only in approved media staging areas. Access rules will be determined based on safety conditions and may change without notice.
Key Messaging Guidelines
To ensure accurate and consistent reporting during emergencies in Kemah.
Official Incident Name
Always refer to the emergency by its designated official name in all stories, captions, and headlines.
Example: Kemah Winter Storm Response 2025
Standard Disclaimer
Include this statement in all coverage to reflect evolving conditions:
All public safety information is subject to change as conditions evolve.
Consistent Terminology
Use official names for all city facilities, agencies, and resources:
- Kemah Police Department
- Kemah City Hall
- City of Kemah Emergency Operations Center
- Kemah - /ˈkiːmə/ - KEE-mah (rhymes with see-muh)