Denver Mayor Mike Johnston has picked Al Gardner to head the city's Department of Safety, a role that places him in charge of the Denver Police Department, Fire Department, Sheriff Department, 9-1-1, and Community Corrections. Pending the City Council's nod, Gardner will step in for Armando Saldate, who has been at the helm since 2022 and is set to take over the Colorado Bureau of Investigation, according to the City and County of Denver.
In a statement, Mayor Johnston lauded Gardner's commitment and passion for the city, deeming him "the right choice to lead the Department of Safety forward." Gardner's extensive background includes spearheading a Denver-based startup's successful initial public offering in 2022 and serving on Colorado’s Board of Health after being appointed by Governor Polis. His experiences are expected to carry over into his new role.
Gardner himself expressed enthusiasm about his new undertaking. "Serving the people of Denver has been a privilege, and I am excited to continue that work with the Department of Safety and the community," Gardner said. "Together, we will drive innovation, uphold public trust, and ensure our safety teams have the resources and support they need to protect and serve every resident," as per the City and County of Denver.
Support for Gardner also comes from Murphy Robinson, the former Deputy Mayor and Director of Public Safety, who underscored the need for a Director that matches the city’s evolving demands. "Deputy Mayor Al Gardner is the right person for this moment,” Robinson was quoted. “His leadership will not only strengthen are public safety institutions but also add meaningful value to the broader Denver community," as obtained by the City and County of Denver. Gardner's track record reflects involvement in various boards that underscore his dedication to public safety and accountability positions that suggest familiarity with the community he is set to serve.
