Loveland’s History: Key Events from August 24-30, 2025

During the week of August 24-30, 2025, several significant developments occurred in Loveland, Colorado, reflecting the city’s ongoing evolution and community engagement.

Transportation and Education Initiatives

Ten years prior, Larimer County officially joined the U.S. 34 coalition, a regional group focused on addressing congestion and transportation needs along U.S. 34, stretching from the west end of Loveland to Kersey. The county’s transportation manager stated, “We have the opportunity now to determine what the roadway will be like before some of that development begins.” This proactive approach aimed to shape infrastructure before significant development occurred.

In the educational sector, the Thompson School Board faced ideological divisions as eight candidates submitted petitions for four available seats in the November 2015 election. Incumbents included Pam Howard and Denise Montagu, alongside challengers Vince Hansen, Jeff Swanty, Aimee Randall, Tomi Grundvig, David Levy, and Bruce Finger. Notably, incumbents Donna Rice and Bob Kerrigan opted not to seek reelection.

A district court judge commenced hearings in a lawsuit brought by the Thompson Education Association against the Thompson School District over a failed contract negotiation. Judge Julie Kunce Field remarked after three hours of testimony, “I’ve got my work cut out for me.” The lawsuit accused the district of breaching contract terms, claiming that the board’s majority lacked the intention to approve any contract, effectively aiming to sever ties with the union.

Community Engagement and Business Developments

In a lighter turn of events, a popular blond mannequin known as SweetTea, which had been stolen from outside Jamoka Joe, was returned by local residents who found it in a ditch near Namaqua Park. The owner of Jamoka Joe expressed relief, stating, “My regulars took a very personal issue with it; they were almost angry that someone took her.” The mannequin is a beloved fixture, often posing for selfies with customers.

Additionally, commercial airline service returned to the Fort Collins-Loveland Municipal Airport, now called Northern Colorado Regional Airport, as Elite Airways launched routes to Illinois and New Jersey, enhancing travel options for residents.

Business ventures were also on the rise, with Loveland resident Guy McConnell announcing plans to open Laughing Leprechaun Meadery at 451 N. Railroad Ave. by March 2016. McConnell aimed to introduce mead, a honey-based wine, to the downtown Loveland market, citing “astronomical growth in the numbers of meaderies across the country.”

Moreover, the city of Loveland sought public input for naming four natural areas planned along the Big Thompson River, highlighting community involvement in local development.

Community Safety and Environmental Concerns

Reflecting on the past 25 years, the Loveland Fire Department addressed staff concerns. Career firefighters requested additional personnel on each shift, while volunteers expressed worries regarding potential impacts on their ranks. At that time, two career firefighters operated per engine, and volunteers responded from their homes and jobs. The firefighters aimed to increase staffing to four per engine for more effective emergency responses.

Loveland’s Corn Roast Festival celebrated its annual tradition with a corn-shucking contest, where a team from the Loveland Housing Authority successfully shucked 25 bags of corn in just six minutes, showcasing community spirit.

Environmental issues also arose, as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency cited a developer for violating the Clean Water Act at the Indian Creek Ranch housing development. The agency mandated the removal of fill material discharged into Indian Creek, emphasizing the importance of environmental compliance.

In a significant move, Larimer County commissioners proposed a one-mill increase in property tax to support the nonprofit Foothills Gateway, which provides services to over 700 individuals with developmental disabilities. The additional funding aimed to address unmet transportation and housing needs, with 150 individuals on a waiting list for services.

These events from Loveland’s recent history illustrate a community actively engaged in addressing transportation, education, environmental, and social issues, reflecting the dynamic nature of this evolving city.