I have a personal note to share about my friend Sal Carpio, who retired this month after 12 years as head of the Denver Housing Authority and more than a generation as a City of Denver employee.
About 20 years ago, when Sal represented District 9 on the City Council, I applied for a job in his office — an entry-level position. I didn’t get the position; Sal hired Debbie Ortega instead. A few years later, when Sal moved on to other challenges, Debbie was elected to represent the district and I applied for a job in her office. That time I got hired.
But it still feels like I’m doing Sal’s work. Today, sitting in his old seat on the Council, I appreciate even more all the battles he fought for northwest Denver and all the things he accomplished. He paved the way for clinics and parks and schools on the west side; he worked to bring facilities for the elderly, the homeless, the needy. A lot of his work took place behind the scenes; he didn’t get the recognition he deserved, and he never sought it out. The only satisfaction he needed was to get good things done for the neighborhoods and families in his charge.
At Monday night’s City Council meeting, I was proud to introduce a resolution paying tribute to Sal and offering long-overdue recognition for his service to the people of Denver. It so happens I also got my 20-year pin that day, signifying my 20 years of employment with the city. Seems like a long time — but I’ve still got a long way to go to equal Sal’s contributions. He’ll be taking it easy from now on, and I’ll be doing my best to carry his work forward. Enjoy your retirement, old friend.
Here are a couple of photos from Sal’s retirement party at La Loma earlier this week:
