Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — In the middle of the ASG budget hearings, which total $815 million for the upcoming fiscal year, Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula has appointed a new Treasurer.

In a memorandum released on Friday, the Governor announced the appointment of Bret Butler as Acting Treasurer. Butler, who currently serves as the Governor’s Executive Advisor, will succeed Donald Kruse, who was initially appointed when the Pula and Pulu Administration took office in January. 

"In accordance with ASCA 4.0111 (b) I hereby appoint Bret Butler as Acting Treasurer for the Department of Treasury. Please give Mr Butler your full support and cooperation," stated the governor in his memorandum.

The reasons for Mr. Kruse's replacement remain unclear; however, government officials have indicated that the Governor was dissatisfied with how the budget was drafted and submitted to the Fono.

During the joint budget hearings held last Wednesday, Senator Togiola Tulafono raised significant concerns regarding the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year. He argued that when compared to the current budget, the new proposal presents a troubling deficit.

Senator Tulafono emphasized the potential implications of this deficit on the community and urged a thorough examination and reconsideration of the budget before its final approval (please refer to the full story elsewhere in this Samoa News edition).

When the Pula and Pulu Administration took office, Cabinet members were appointed alongside Executive Advisors. In February, Kruse addressed the statutory authority of executive advisors, noting that the relationship between directors and executive advisors has created some confusion. 

He expressed that this situation has not been well-received by him or other directors. During a House hearing, Kruse highlighted that while it was initially explained that executive advisors would serve in advisory roles, their duties, which include “overseeing” departments, imply a leadership position. He expressed surprise at this interpretation, as he believes “oversee” means to lead. Kruse, at that time, questioned what statute grants anyone other than the Governor the authority to oversee directors, noting that attorneys have sought his opinion on this matter, but he has not provided a definitive answer.

Kruse is a businessman in the territory.

Mr. Butler previously served as the general manager of StarKist Samoa, where he gained significant experience in management and operations within the local economy.

Prior to his current appointment, Mr. Butler held the position of Executive Advisor to the Governor, overseeing various government departments responsible for financial management, including the Treasury, the Budget Office, the American Rescue Plan Act Office, and the American Samoa Economic Development Agency.

His extensive background in fiscal policy and economic development is expected to benefit his role as Acting Treasurer greatly.

In addition to this position, Mr. Butler has also been appointed to the Board of Directors of the American Samoa Economic Development Authority, where he will play a critical role in formulating strategies to enhance economic growth and stability within the territory.