Finance Commissioner Of Upstate NY County Accused Of Stealing

A non-profit recreation and swimming organization that is funded by it's membership trusted a County Finance Commissioner to be their treasurer. Unfortunately, as life goes sometimes, unexpected surprises happen.

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In a concerning timeline of events, their treasurer resigned on Wednesday from his commissioner's position following theft allegations by the association.

According to a report by midhudsonnews.com, Burt Gulnick quickly resigned on Wednesday as the Ulster County Commissioner of Finance. Gulnick indeed served as treasurer for the Hurley Recreation Association. Gulnick has been accused by the association of stealing funds. Mid Hudson News reported that Ulster County Comptroller, March Gallagher will begin an internal investigation into the Ulster County finances that Gulnick was responsible for.

“Given the seriousness of the allegations, as they relate to cash oversight and management, I immediately reached out to the County Executive’s Office and began an internal investigation. While the allegations are presently being investigated by state and local authorities, it is imperative that the County immediately take the appropriate steps to safeguard Ulster County taxpayers’ more than $214 million in cash assets,” Comptroller Gallagher told midhudsonnews.com.

Hurley Town Supervisor, Melinda McKnight made a declarative statement Wednesday evening about the recreation association that bares the town's name. “The Hurley Recreation Association, commonly known as Hurley Rec, is neither operated nor funded by the Town of Hurley. Its name is derived merely from the fact that it is located within the town. Hurley Rec, a swimming and outdoor recreation park at 50 Dewitt Mills Road, is a nonprofit organization that is funded by members’ dues and guest fees, and is managed by a Board of Directors.” The statement appeared to assure town residents that their municipalities' finances were not effected by this incident.