Effective Date: June 4th 2025
Issued By: City of Sarnia – Bluewater Trails Committee

Purpose

The City of Sarnia bluewater Trails Committee is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard personal information submitted by the public through our trail system engagement channels, including photos, maintenance requests, and feedback.

1. Information We Collect

We may collect the following types of information:

• Personal Information: Name, email address, phone number (if provided in feedback or reports).
• Photographic Submissions: Photos of trail conditions, wildlife, or events—submitted voluntarily by users.
• Location Data: If you submit a request using a map tool or attach geotagged images.
• Maintenance Requests: Descriptions of issues (e.g., debris, signage damage, hazards).
• General Feedback: Comments, suggestions, or testimonials about the trail system.

2. Use of Information

We collect this information to:

• Respond to maintenance concerns and trail-related inquiries.
• Improve trail safety, accessibility, and user experience.
• Promote community engagement through shared photos and feedback (with consent).
• Track trends or recurring issues to inform trail planning and resource allocation.

3. Consent

By submitting information through our platforms, you consent to the collection, use, and potential publication of that information for the purposes outlined above. You may withdraw your consent at any time by contacting us.

If you submit a photo and consent to its public use, we may display it (with or without credit) on our website, social media, or promotional materials. No personally identifying information will be shared without your explicit permission.

4. Disclosure of Information

We will not sell, rent, or lease your personal information to third parties. Your information may be shared internally with municipal staff, Bluewater Trail Committee members and contractors for the purposes of addressing trail issues or improving service delivery.

In limited cases, we may be required to disclose information in accordance with legal obligations under applicable privacy legislation, such as the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA).

5. Data Retention and Security

We retain submitted data only as long as necessary to fulfill the purpose for which it was collected or as required by law. All information is stored securely and accessed only by authorized personnel.

6. Children’s Privacy

We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under the age of 13 without parental or guardian consent. If we become aware that we have received such information without consent, we will take steps to delete it.

7. Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Access the personal information we hold about you.
• Request correction of any inaccuracies.
• Withdraw consent at any time (subject to legal and contractual limitations).

Requests must be submitted in writing to the contact information below.

8. Contact Information

For questions, requests, or concerns regarding this Privacy Policy or the handling of your personal information, please contact:

City Clerk’s Office
519-332-0330 Ext: 3263

9. Policy Updates

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Changes will be posted on our website and will become effective upon posting.