Privacy & Communications Policy

Last Updated: December 2025

The Gates Ridge Civic Association is committed to respecting the privacy of all neighbors and handling information responsibly. This policy explains what information we use, how it is used, and how we communicate with residents.

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1. Information We Maintain

We only keep basic, non-private information, including:

    •    Street address

    •    Whether dues are paid for the current year (yes/no)

    •    Contact information only if voluntarily provided by residents

We do not store or share:

    •    Full names

    •    Financial information

    •    Birthdates

    •    Passwords

    •    Social Security numbers

    •    Driver’s license details

    •    Any other sensitive or protected personal data

All information we use is either:

    •    Provided voluntarily by neighbors, or

    •    Already publicly available through standard township records.

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2. Contact Information

Phone numbers or emails are only used to communicate about Civic Association matters, such as:

    •    Annual dues reminders

    •    Community updates

    •    Security alerts

    •    Event notifications

We do not post or share phone numbers publicly.

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3. Dues Information

Dues are voluntary, and payment status is used only for:

    •    Tracking annual participation

    •    Budgeting for neighborhood improvements

    •    Planning maintenance of entrances, lighting, landscaping, and security enhancements

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4. Communication Practices

We strive to communicate respectfully and transparently. Typically:

    •    A dues reminder may be sent

    •    After a neighbor indicates they are not participating, no further messages are sent

    •    All group messages follow courteous and community-minded standards

There is no intent to pressure, single out, or inconvenience anyone.

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5. Commitment to Privacy

We take privacy seriously and continuously work to ensure:

    •    No private or sensitive information is collected

    •    No information is sold or shared with outside parties

    •    All neighborhood data is handled with respect and minimalism

If you have concerns or suggestions, we encourage open dialogue.

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6. Optional Group Chats (WhatsApp and Similar Platforms)

The Gates Ridge Civic Association may offer optional group communication channels such as WhatsApp or other messaging apps for neighbors who wish to receive updates or stay connected. Participation in these groups is entirely voluntary. Please note that when you join a group chat on platforms like WhatsApp, your phone number becomes visible to all other members of that chat. These groups are intended solely for community updates, safety notices, and neighbor-to-neighbor communication. If you prefer not to share your phone number with others, you are welcome to stay informed through our regular email updates instead.

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7. How to Contact Us

To update your information, please contact: gatesridgecivicassociation@gmail.com