(1) An application for implementation of the total return distribution method shall be submitted at least sixty days prior to the effective date of the election to use total return. The cemetery authority shall provide the board with the following:

(a) A written investment and distribution policy in which future distributions from the endowment care fund will be total return distribution amounts rather than net ordinary income distribution amounts. The investment goals shall be to achieve principal growth through investments including, but not limited to, equity investments, as well as achieve current income through investments including, but not limited to, income investments.

(b) An amended endowment care trust agreement to clearly show intent to use the total return distribution method.

(c) A written document establishing the average fair market value signed by the cemetery authority and/or trustee(s), and supporting documents.

(d) Completed application form indicating the total return percentage and signed by the cemetery authority.

(2) The application shall be considered approved unless the cemetery authority or trustee is notified otherwise by the board within thirty days of receipt. Such notification shall contain details of the information needed to remedy any deficiencies in the application.

(3) The maximum total return percentage for the first year will be four percent. The cemetery authority or trustee may submit a written request to the board to modify the total return percentage twelve months after implementation of the total return distribution method.

(4) If the cemetery authority or trustee alters the total return percentage, the cemetery authority or trustee shall send written notice to the board. This notification shall be made before the first distribution is taken based on the new total return percentage and shall contain the revised total return percentage and the reason for the revision.

(5) The trustee shall distribute income to the cemetery authority at least annually or in more frequent installments agreed to by the trustee and the cemetery authority.

(6) A cemetery authority that converts the endowment care fund to a total return fund may elect to reconvert the fund to a net ordinary income fund by submitting written documentation to the board in support of the reconversion at least sixty days before the proposed effective date of the reconversion, including a copy of the trust agreement, notification on the proposed effective date of the reconversion, and any additional information required by the board.

(7) Unless an application and required documents for conversion to the total return distribution method have been received and approved by the board, a cemetery authority or trustee(s) may distribute only the net ordinary income from the endowment care fund for the general care, maintenance, and embellishment of the cemetery.