KINGSTON — The Kingston Cemetery Association respects the fact that residents bring symbolic and meaningful items to the gravesites of family members and friends, but they would also like to see the grounds kept clean and dignified.

Kingston Cemetery Association secretary Roddy Reynolds said people are leaving figurines and trinkets that turn unsightly after several months. These create small eyesores, as well as a problem for the groundkeepers.

“It has to be dignified,” she said of the grounds. “It has to be where mowers can move right around them.”

The all-volunteer association is asking people who have left items by grave markers to remove them and maintain the landscaping around their graves. While live and silk flower displays are OK, other items tend to make it more difficult for the groundkeepers to maintain the cemetery.

“The individuals who have plots should come and take care of the plots,” Reynolds said.

While Reynolds realizes there is no water connection on the grounds to keep the grass and other plants green, she is hoping that will change next summer.

With the new water line that was installed on Norman Road this summer, the group has an opportunity to connect to the line, bringing water to the cemetery.

But that can’t be done without money to purchase the equipment and connection. KCA members hope to work with other Kingston community groups to help raise money for the project.

The group would also be more than happy to work with residents in need of community service who would be willing to help out with maintenance of the cemetery as well, Reynolds said.