One of the Western Slope’s most established accounting firms entered a new era at the start of this year.
Buckendorf, Haynes CPAs, a fixture in the Montrose community for years, is now under the sole ownership of Eric Haynes — the Haynes side of the partnership, following a carefully managed transition from longtime partner Dena Buckendorf.
The CPA firm recently moved to a new location at 18 N. Uncompahgre in downtown, and the Montrose Business Times sat down with the new owner to talk about what that change means for clients, what it’s like to step into full ownership, and where the firm is headed.
Transition & Ownership
MBT: You became full owner of Buckendorf, Haynes CPAs in January 2026 — what did that transition look like, and how has the day-to-day feel of running the firm changed for you since then?
Haynes: The transition was actually several years in the making. Dena and I worked closely together to ensure continuity for both our clients and our team, so by the time January 2026 arrived, it felt more like the next chapter than a sudden change.
The biggest difference now is that every decision ultimately rests with me — from strategic planning and technology investments to client service initiatives and firm culture.
It’s a responsibility I take seriously, but it’s also exciting because I have the opportunity to shape the firm’s future while maintaining the level of service our clients have come to expect.
MBT: What did your partnership with the Buckendorf side of the firm teach you that you’re carrying forward as you step into sole ownership?
Haynes: The most important lesson was that accounting is fundamentally a relationship business. Clients stay with a firm because they trust the people behind it. Dena built a reputation for being accessible, dependable, and deeply invested in her clients’ success. That’s something I intend to carry forward. I also learned the importance of being involved in the community and taking a long-term view of client relationships rather than focusing on short-term transactions.
The Business & Community
MBT: Buckendorf, Haynes has deep roots in the Montrose community — how do you plan to honor that legacy while also putting your own stamp on the firm’s future?
Haynes: The foundation of the firm won’t change. We’re still committed to providing personalized service and practical advice to families, farmers, ranchers, retirees, and business owners throughout Western Colorado.
Where I hope to put my own stamp on the firm is through thoughtful modernization — improving technology and creating more efficient processes that make it easier for clients to work with us. My goal is to preserve the personal touch while making the firm more accessible and responsive.
MBT: What types of clients and industries make up the core of your practice, and are there any services or specialties you’re looking to grow in the coming years?
Haynes: Our practice serves a broad mix of individual and small business clients. Many of our clients are family-owned businesses that have been part of the Western Slope economy for generations. In addition to tax preparation and planning, we continue to expand our support services beyond tax season.
A big part of that effort will be our team. Maureen Cross has been with the firm for eight years and has become an expert in bookkeeping and payroll services.
She plays an important role in helping our clients maintain accurate records and navigate the day-to-day financial responsibilities that keep their businesses running smoothly.
More business owners today are looking for trusted partners to help with bookkeeping, payroll, and financial reporting throughout the year — not just during tax season.
Our goal is to be a year-round resource while preserving the personal relationships and local values that have defined the firm for years.
Small business owners in Montrose are navigating a lot right now — rising costs, tax changes, staffing challenges. What’s the most common financial concern you’re hearing from your clients in 2026?
Uncertainty is probably the biggest concern. Costs continue to rise, labor remains difficult to find in some industries, and many business owners are trying to make long-term decisions without knowing exactly what the tax landscape will look like in the future.
We’re also seeing many owners struggle to find qualified employees who can handle bookkeeping, payroll, and administrative functions. As a result, more businesses are outsourcing those responsibilities so they can focus on serving customers and growing their operations.
We help clients create reliable systems and processes that provide accurate financial information and reduce some of the stress that comes with managing a business. More than ever, clients want help understanding cash flow, profitability, and how today’s decisions affect their business several years down the road. They’re looking for clarity and confidence in an environment that often feels unpredictable.
Advice & Perspective
MBT: What’s one piece of financial advice you find yourself giving over and over again that you wish more local business owners would take to heart?
Haynes: Know your numbers before you need them. Too many business owners only look at their financial statements when tax season arrives or when there’s a problem. The businesses that consistently succeed are the ones that review their financial information regularly and use it to make decisions throughout the year. Good bookkeeping and timely financial reporting aren’t just compliance tools — they’re management tools.
MBT: As a business owner yourself now, has your perspective on what your clients go through changed at all?
Absolutely. While I’ve always worked closely with business owners, being solely responsible for a firm’s success gives you a deeper appreciation for the challenges they face. You’re constantly balancing growth opportunities, staffing decisions, technology investments, client service, and financial realities.
Haynes: It has also reinforced how valuable a trusted team can be. I’ve been fortunate to work alongside people like Maureen and Dena, and now my wife, Rachel. Having a strong team allows us to better serve our clients and reminds me of the same staffing and retention challenges that many of our business-owner clients face every day.
Looking Ahead
MBT: Where do you see Buckendorf, Haynes CPAs in five years — in terms of size, services, or role in the community?
Haynes: Five years from now, I’d like Buckendorf, Haynes CPAs to remain one of the most trusted accounting firms in the area. Growth is important, but not growth for growth’s sake. I want us to continue attracting great clients and talented professionals while maintaining the personal service that sets us apart.
I also see us expanding our role as a year-round advisor. That includes not only tax preparation and planning, but also bookkeeping, payroll, and business consulting services that help clients make informed decisions throughout the year. Many small business owners don’t need just a tax preparer — they need a trusted financial partner. That’s where I see our firm providing the greatest value.
Most importantly, I want the community to continue viewing us as a local firm that cares deeply about the success of the people and businesses that make Montrose and Western Colorado such a great place to live and work.
Buckendorf, Haynes CPAs serves individuals, families, and small businesses throughout Montrose and Western Colorado, offering tax preparation and planning, bookkeeping, payroll, and business advisory services.
Tonya Maddox is the founder and publisher of the Montrose Business Times. She can be reached at 970-765-0915 or via email at tonya@montrosebusinesstimes.com.
