Loveland Extends Deadline for Board and Commission Applications to December 14
The City of Loveland has extended its recruitment deadline for community members to serve on seven advisory boards and commissions to December 14, giving residents additional time to apply for volunteer positions that shape city policies on issues ranging from historic preservation to transportation planning.
The original deadline was November 17, but city officials extended the application period through the end of day on December 14 to allow more residents to participate in the selection process.
Those chosen to serve on boards and commissions advise city staff and Loveland City Council on key projects and policies. Prior board or commission experience is not required.
Seven Boards Seeking New Members
Vacancies exist on the Disabilities Advisory Commission, Downtown Development Authority, Historic Preservation Commission, Loveland Communication Advisory Board, Parks and Recreation Commission, Senior Advisory Board, and Transportation Advisory Board.
The advisory bodies serve distinct functions within Loveland's municipal governance structure. Most operate as advisory-only bodies that submit policy recommendations to City Council for consideration, while some commissions hold limited regulatory authority within their subject areas.
The Historic Preservation Commission, established in 1976 under Colorado Revised Statutes, reviews applications for historic designation and alterations to historic properties. The commission has regulatory authority over historic properties, though final decisions on major projects require City Council approval.
The Downtown Development Authority, created in 1985 under state statute, oversees management and development of Loveland's downtown district. The DDA holds limited financial authority to approve certain expenditures and contracts within its district, though major actions require City Council ratification.
The Parks and Recreation Commission, established in 1970, advises on parks, recreation and open space policies. The commission meets monthly and reviews proposed improvements to parks and recreation services.
Meeting Commitments Vary by Board
Meeting frequencies range from quarterly to monthly depending on the board. The Transportation Advisory Board and Parks and Recreation Commission meet monthly, while the Senior Advisory Board and Loveland Communication Advisory Board meet quarterly.
Term lengths typically range from two to four years, with most boards using staggered terms to maintain continuity and prevent complete membership turnover in any single year. Members can typically serve multiple consecutive terms.
The Disabilities Advisory Commission was established in 1990 following passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act to ensure Loveland's compliance with ADA requirements and promote accessibility for people with disabilities.
The Senior Advisory Board, created in 1985, advises on issues affecting older adults including aging services, housing, transportation and social engagement. Applicants should be 55 years or older or have a strong interest in senior issues.
The Transportation Advisory Board, established in 2005, reviews and recommends improvements to transportation systems including roads, transit and active transportation infrastructure.
The Loveland Communication Advisory Board, created in 2010, advises City Council on communication strategies, public outreach and media relations. The board was restructured in 2020 to focus more on digital communication and public engagement.
Application Requirements and Process
All applicants must reside within Loveland throughout their term. The city has adopted equity and diversity goals for board representation, aiming to increase participation from underrepresented groups including people of color, people with disabilities and younger residents.
Current boards and commissions are predominantly composed of white, middle-aged and long-term residents, according to city equity and inclusion initiatives. The city has identified barriers to participation including lack of awareness, limited outreach to underrepresented communities and time commitment requirements.
Loveland's recruitment timeline and application period is comparable to neighboring municipalities. Fort Collins conducts annual recruitment for its 22 boards and commissions, with applications accepted from December 1 through January 9. Greeley appointed 11 community members to five advisory boards on November 4, with additional recruitment continuing through November 18.
Applications must be submitted online at go.lovgov.org/BoardAndCommissionApplication. For assistance with an application or for a paper copy, residents can contact the City Clerk's Office at 970-962-2000 Option 9 or email [email protected].