Jacki Marsh Reflects on Eight Turbulent Years as Loveland Mayor

After eight years marked by challenges and controversies, Jacki Marsh reflects on her time as the mayor of Loveland, Colorado. From her first meeting on November 14, 2017, to her last two weeks ago, her tenure has been anything but dull. Facing lawsuits, personal attacks, and intense political battles, she navigated a tumultuous landscape with resilience and a distinctive sense of humor.

The Beginning of a Controversial Journey

Marsh entered the political scene unexpectedly in August 2017, after serving four years as a jewelry boutique owner on Fourth Street. She became a vocal critic of the City Council, which she claimed showed favoritism toward wealthy interests and lacked transparency. Surprisingly, she won her election just three months later, defeating more established candidates like John Fogle and Larry Heckle.

“I went into an environment where the current council had expected Fogle to win, and yet I won,” Marsh recalled. The victory brought not only joy but also hostility from her colleagues and some city staff, leaving Marsh to fend for herself in a challenging political environment. “I got thrown in sink or swim,” she added.

Determined to implement her reform agenda, Marsh faced significant opposition during her initial term. She focused on business incentives and aimed to limit the influence of McWhinney Real Estate Services in urban renewal projects. While she achieved some successes, her efforts were often met with resistance from her fellow council members.

Struggles and Triumphs

Despite the obstacles, Marsh successfully won reelection three times. Her subsequent terms were characterized by contentious debates in council chambers and legal battles in the Larimer County District Court. One notable clash involved accusations of a smear campaign against her by a fellow council member, leading to heightened tensions within the council.

The turning point came in 2023, particularly regarding the Centerra South urban renewal proposal. Although the council approved the plan with a 7-2 vote in May, Marsh’s persistent opposition resonated with Loveland residents. This discontent helped her and three allied candidates secure election victories in November.

“We finally flipped council,” she said, expressing hope for more collaborative governance. However, her honeymoon period was short-lived. Shortly after the new members took office, Marsh utilized a procedural maneuver to overturn the resolution supporting Centerra South, sparking lawsuits and significant backlash.

“The animosity, the hatred, the coordinated attacks on us — that was the craziest thing,” she remarked. “We didn’t get the opportunity to do some really good things for the city.”

Looking Ahead

As her final term concluded, Marsh recognized the need for change in Loveland’s political culture. She expressed concern over the secrecy surrounding city decisions and emphasized the importance of open discussions. “Decisions are being made and thinking is being influenced behind the scenes,” she stated. Marsh advocates for city leadership to prioritize transparency and public engagement.

Her advice for her successor, whether Pat McFall or Troy Daniels, is to actively listen to the community and engage with residents outside formal meetings. “Volunteer wherever you can,” she encouraged. “You’re going to hear real concerns, real life stories, and real life wins and losses that you’re not going to hear elsewhere.”

Ultimately, Marsh departs Loveland’s political scene without regrets, hopeful that her tenure will contribute to a future of greater transparency and accountability. “I think history will be kind to me,” she reflected. “I learned that I don’t give up — even in the face of hostility and animosity.”

Her journey in Loveland politics serves as a testament to her commitment to the community. As she steps away, she remains proud of her efforts and the relationships she built, emphasizing her deep care for the people of Loveland.