The Oklahoma Agreement for Perpetual Care in a Cemetery is a legal document that outlines the responsibilities and obligations of the cemetery owner or operator to ensure the perpetual care and maintenance of cemetery grounds, burial plots, and memorial structures. This agreement is crucial in establishing a framework that guarantees the preservation and upkeep of cemetery property. One of the key aspects covered in the Oklahoma Agreement for Perpetual Care is the requirement for the cemetery to set aside a portion of the funds received from plot sales or endowments into a Perpetual Care Fund. This fund serves as a financial resource specifically meant for the long-term maintenance, repair, and enhancement of the cemetery grounds, as well as the preservation of burial markers and structures. The agreement typically specifies the allowable uses of these funds, which can include landscaping, mowing, irrigation, tree planting, fertilization, road maintenance, repairs to fences and gates, and other necessary upkeep activities. By explicitly stating the approved allocation of funds, the agreement ensures transparency and accountability in how the perpetual care funds are utilized. In Oklahoma, there are various types of agreements for perpetual care in cemeteries based on the ownership and management structure. These can include: 1. Cemetery Maintenance Agreements: This type of agreement is entered into between the cemetery management and individuals or families who have purchased burial plots. It outlines the specific services and maintenance that will be provided in perpetuity for the designated plot. 2. Endowment Care Trust Funds: Certain cemeteries in Oklahoma establish endowment care trust funds, which are managed by a trustee or board of trustees. These funds are comprised of payments made by plot purchasers or through individual contributions. The agreement includes provisions for the distribution and utilization of these funds for perpetual care purposes. 3. Individual Family Trusts: In some cases, families or individuals may establish their own perpetual care trusts specifically tailored to the care and maintenance of their burial plots. These trusts are managed and disbursed according to the conditions established by the trust agreement. The Oklahoma Agreement for Perpetual Care in a Cemetery is a vital legal instrument that safeguards the perpetual maintenance of cemeteries and ensures that the final resting places of loved ones are preserved in a dignified and respectful manner. It provides peace of mind to individuals and families by guaranteeing the ongoing care and attention to the cemetery grounds, creating a lasting legacy for future generations.