A financial dispute in Pulaski County has escalated, with County Judge Barry Hyde calling for the immediate resignation of Treasurer Debra Buckner following confusion over millions in county funds.
During a Friday press conference, Hyde stated that despite earlier concerns, no funds were actually missing or misused. His call for resignation comes after what he described as miscommunication and inaccurate financial reporting from the Treasurer’s office.
How the $42 Million Confusion Started
Earlier this month, the Quorum Court approved the transfer of $42 million in emergency reserves into the county’s operating fund. The move followed warnings from Treasurer Buckner that the county lacked sufficient funds to meet payroll obligations.
However, Hyde and County Comptroller Mike Hutchins later disputed that claim, saying:
- There was no actual financial emergency
- The county had adequate funds available
- The reported shortfall was based on incomplete financial context
Audit Findings: No Missing Money
According to Hutchins, a review of county finances found:
- No evidence of missing or mismanaged funds
- The county ended 2023 and 2024 with positive balances
- Budget adjustments were properly authorized by the Quorum Court
He added that Buckner’s report failed to account for incoming revenues and approved budget allocations, which painted an inaccurate picture of the county’s financial health.
What About the 2025 Deficit?
Officials acknowledged a temporary deficit in 2025, but clarified it was due to delayed payments owed to the county. Those funds have since been paid — including balances from Little Rock — bringing accounts back to current as of April.
What Happens Next?
The fate of the $42 million transfer now rests with the Quorum Court, which must decide whether to:
- Return the money to reserve funds, or
- Keep it within the general operating budget
As of now, Treasurer Buckner has not publicly responded to the allegations or the call for her resignation.