An Española city official by night has taken a position as a county worker bee by day.
Three-term Española City Councilor and Mayor Pro Tem Dennis Tim Salazar has begun working for Rio Arriba County as an administrative assistant in the County’s senior citizens program.
“So far, so good,” Salazar said. “I’ve enjoyed and learned a lot and there’s a lot to learn.”
Salazar, 40, began working full-time for the County on Sept. 16, at a pay rate of $16.25 an hour, or an equivalent of $33,800 annually. His title is administrative assistant I and his direct supervisor is Senior Programs Director Juan Lopez. Salazar is working regular business hours at the County annex in Española. Most of his city council responsibilities take place during evening meetings.
Salazar said, so far, his elected duties have not interfered with his day job.
“I try to keep them separate as well,” he said.
Salazar said on his employment application he had never before worked for the County. He also said he did not have any friends or relatives that work for the County.
Salazar said he applied for the position while on furlough in July from Casa de Corazon Behavioral Health Services for Children in Española.
As a current employer, Salazar listed his position as a city councilor, which he’s held since March 2004.
He was also employed by Santa Clara Pueblo from May 2008 through September 2011 as a surveillance manager, according to his application. He was a detective and management analyst for the state Human Services Department from September 2006 through May 2008.
“I pretty much had a full-time job throughout my entire adult life,” Salazar said. “To me, it’s pretty much the same.”
Salazar’s references for the County position were state Public Regulation Commissioner Valerie Espinoza, Española City Councilor Cory Lewis and Darlene Sena-Esch of Española.