Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

The Town of Kiowa, Oklahoma ("Town," "we," or "our") respects the privacy of residents, businesses, and visitors who interact with our official website and digital services. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect personal information through https://kiowaoklahoma.com and through other official communication systems operated by the Town, including the Police Department and the Public Works Authority.

2. Information We Collect

The Town may collect limited personal information that you voluntarily provide, such as:

• Name, mailing address, phone number, and email address
• Utility account or service details
• Information submitted via online forms or email
• Contact information shared with police officers for reports, citations, or public safety communication
• Technical data such as browser type, date/time of visit, and referring pages (for website analytics)

No sensitive personal data (such as Social Security numbers or payment card data) is collected or stored through the Town’s public website. No phone/mobile number information will be shared with third parties/affiliates for marketing/promotional purposes. All the above categories exclude text messaging originator opt-in data and consent; this information will not be shared with any third parties.

3. How We Use Collected Information

Information collected by the Town of Kiowa is used for official municipal purposes only, including:

• Processing and managing utility accounts and service requests
• Providing billing, meeting, or emergency notifications
• Responding to public inquiries and service requests
• Distributing alerts or updates from City Hall or the Police Department
• Communicating about police reports, citations, or investigations when applicable
• Complying with local, state, and federal record-keeping requirements

4. SMS, Email, and Automated Communications

The Town may send text messages (SMS) or emails to individuals who have provided their contact information for notifications related to utilities, community alerts, or law enforcement communications.

• By providing your phone number or email and opting in to messaging, you consent to receive official notifications.
• Message and data rates may apply depending on your carrier and plan.
• You may opt out at any time by replying "STOP" to text messages or contacting City Hall.
• Emails include an unsubscribe link or instructions for removal.
• Message frequency may vary.
• You can text help for support.

Police officers may collect phone numbers in the field for communication about reports or citations. This information is used solely for official Town of Kiowa purposes and is not shared externally.

5. Data Sharing and Public Records

The Town of Kiowa does not sell, lease, or trade any personal information. However, the Town is subject to the Oklahoma Open Records Act, which may require the disclosure of certain records upon request by the public. Information will only be released as required by law or court order.

6. Website Cookies and Analytics

The Town's website may use basic analytics tools to monitor general site performance and traffic trends. These tools may place small cookies on your device for session tracking and page performance. No personally identifiable information is collected through analytics.

You can adjust your browser settings to block or delete cookies if you prefer.

7. Data Security

The Town employs reasonable administrative, physical, and technical safeguards to protect the information it manages from unauthorized access, loss, or misuse. Despite these measures, no online system is completely secure, and the Town cannot guarantee absolute protection against cyber incidents.

8. Links to External Websites

The Town's website may include links to external government, utility, or community resources. These third-party websites are not controlled by the Town of Kiowa, and visitors are encouraged to review the privacy policies of those sites independently.

9. Children’s Privacy

The Town’s website is intended for use by the general public and does not knowingly collect personal information from children under the age of 13. Parents or guardians who believe their child has submitted information should contact City Hall for assistance in removing it.

10. Updates to This Policy

The Town may modify this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect updates in procedures or legal requirements. The revised policy will be posted with a new "Last Updated" date.

11. Contact Information

For questions or concerns regarding privacy or data practices, please contact:

Office Manager / Treasurer - Jeriann Hasty
Town of Kiowa, Oklahoma
PO Box 69 / 831 S Van Buren St
Kiowa, OK 74553
Phone: 918-432-5621
Email: jeri@kiowaoklahoma.com