Dickinson Economic Development Corporation Privacy Policy

Effective Date: 11/5/2025

The Dickinson Economic Development Corporation (“DEDC,” “we,” “our,” or “us”) is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of personal information entrusted to us. This Privacy Policy constitutes a legally binding agreement between you and DEDC and governs the collection, use, disclosure, and safeguarding of information obtained through our website, mobile applications, and related digital services. By accessing or using our website, you acknowledge and consent to the practices described herein.

Scope and Applicability

This Privacy Policy applies to all individuals who access or interact with our website or mobile applications, regardless of geographic location. It is intended to comply with applicable data protection laws, including but not limited to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Texas Data Privacy and Security Act.

Information We Collect

We collect information in two primary categories:

Personally Identifiable Information: Data that identifies or can reasonably be linked to an individual, including but not limited to name, email address, telephone number, and any other information voluntarily submitted through forms or communications.

Technical and Usage Data: Technical and usage data automatically collected, such as IP addresses, browser type, device identifiers, and browsing behavior, obtained through cookies and analytics technologies.

Location Data: If you use features that require location information, such as interactive maps or location-based services, we may collect and process location data from your device. Location data is collected only with your consent and is used solely for providing requested services, improving functionality, or fulfilling legal obligations. You may disable location sharing through your device or browser settings at any time; however, certain features may not function properly without access to location data.

Lawful Basis for Processing

Processing of personal data is conducted under one or more lawful bases, including:

  • Consent: For activities requiring explicit permission, such as newsletter subscriptions.
  • Contractual Necessity: To fulfill obligations arising from your requests or interactions.
  • Legal Compliance: To satisfy statutory or regulatory requirements, including public records laws.
  • Legitimate Interests: for purposes such as improving website functionality and ensuring security.
How We Use Your Information

Information collected is utilized for the following purposes:

  • Responding to inquiries and providing requested services.
  • Communicating information regarding programs, events, and opportunities.
  • Enhancing website performance and user experience.
  • Complying with applicable legal obligations.

We do not sell, lease, or trade personal information to third parties.

Disclosure to Third Parties

Personal information may be disclosed to:

  • Authorized Service Providers: Entities engaged to perform functions on our behalf, subject to contractual obligations ensuring confidentiality and restricted use.
  • Governmental Authorities: When required by law, regulation, or valid legal process.
Cookies and Tracking Technologies

Our website and mobile applications employ cookies and similar technologies to facilitate functionality, analyze traffic, and improve services. Non-essential cookies are deployed only upon obtaining user consent.

Users may disable cookies through browser settings; however, certain features may become unavailable.

Third-Party Links

Our website and mobile applications may contain links to other sites not operated by the DEDC. We are not responsible for the content or privacy practices of those third-party websites, and we encourage you to review their privacy policies.

Individual Rights

Subject to applicable law, individuals may exercise rights including:

  • Access to personal data and request for correction or deletion.
  • Restriction or objection to processing.
  • Data portability
  • Withdrawal of consent without affecting prior lawful processing.

Requests may be submitted via email to socialmedia@dickinsontexas.gov and will be addressed within statutory timeframes.

Data Retention

Personal Data is retained only for the duration necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined herein or as mandated by law. Upon expiration of retention periods, data will be securely deleted or anonymized.

Security Measures

We implement commercially reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect information against unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction. While these measures reduce risk, no system can guarantee absolute security.

Children’s Privacy

Our website and mobile applications are not directed toward children under 13 years of age, and we do not knowingly collect personal information from them.

International Data Transfers

Where personal data is transferred across jurisdictions, appropriate safeguards, including Standard Contractual Clauses or equivalent mechanisms, are employed to ensure compliance with applicable laws.

Public Records Disclosure

As a governmental entity, certain information may be subject to disclosure under the Texas Public Information Act. Personally identifiable information will not be disclosed except as required by law.

Breach Notification

In the event of a data breach involving personal information, DEDC will provide timely notification to affected individuals and regulatory authorities in accordance with applicable legal requirements.

Governing Law and Dispute Resolution

This Privacy Policy shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Texas. Any disputes arising under or in connection with this Policy shall be subject to the executive jurisdiction of the courts located in Galveston County, Texas.

Amendments

We reserve the right to amend this Privacy Policy at any time. Material changes will be

communicated by posting an updated version on this website with a revised effective date. Continued use of our website or mobile applications following such changes constitutes acceptance of the updated Policy.

Contact Information

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or how we handle your information, please contact:

Dickinson Economic Development Corporation

4403 Highway 3, Dickinson, Texas 77539

Phone: (281) 337-6105

Email: socialmedia@dickinsontexas.gov