Loveland Fire Chief's Performance Review Highlights Concerns and Praise

Divisiveness and lack of respect cited, but chief also praised for vision and leadership

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The Reporter-Herald has obtained a copy of Loveland Fire Rescue Authority (LFRA) Fire Chief Tim Sendelbach's latest performance review, which was conducted in a closed executive session in September. The review highlighted both positive feedback and concerns from the LFRA board members about Sendelbach's leadership and management style.

Why it matters

The performance review provides insight into the relationship between Sendelbach and the LFRA board, which has since led to Sendelbach being placed on administrative leave and the board issuing a notice of intent to terminate his employment contract. The review sheds light on the underlying tensions and disagreements that have surfaced between Sendelbach and the board.

The details

During the review, board members praised Sendelbach's accomplishments and vision, but also expressed concerns about divisiveness, a lack of respect, and Sendelbach's management style. Board members Jeff Swanty and Paul Bukowski cited issues with Sendelbach's communication and willingness to work collaboratively with the board. Swanty described Sendelbach as at times "arrogant, aggressive and smug," while Bukowski said he was concerned that rank-and-file LFRA staff view the board as the "problem." Sendelbach acknowledged these concerns and apologized for coming across as "demeaning."

  • The biannual performance review took place in a closed executive session during a regularly scheduled LFRA board meeting in September 2025.
  • Months later, in February 2026, Sendelbach was placed on administrative leave.

The players

Tim Sendelbach

The fire chief of the Loveland Fire Rescue Authority (LFRA).

Jeff Swanty

The chairman of the LFRA board.

Paul Bukowski

A member of the LFRA board.

Jim Thompson

The Loveland city manager and a member of the LFRA board.

Jon Mallo

A former member of the LFRA board.

Jacki Marsh

A former mayor of Loveland and a former member of the LFRA board.

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What they’re saying

“(Bukowski) reminded Sendelbach that they are on the same team, and they do not always have to agree.”

— Paul Bukowski, LFRA Board Member (Meeting notes)

“(Swanty) advised Chief Sendelbach to take the 'I' and 'me' out of his vocabulary. (Swanty) described Chief Sendelbach as at times coming across as arrogant, aggressive and smug.”

— Jeff Swanty, LFRA Board Chairman (Meeting notes)

“Chief Sendelbach has told them (the board) that he is handling everything between the boards and he does not want it to affect them (staff). Staff draw their own conclusions from watching the meetings — they tell Chief Sendelbach they don't like how he's being treated.”

— Tim Sendelbach, Fire Chief (Meeting notes)

What’s next

The LFRA board will decide on Tuesday whether to allow Sendelbach to return to work or to proceed with the termination of his employment contract.

The takeaway

The performance review highlights the ongoing tensions and communication challenges between Sendelbach and the LFRA board, which have now escalated to the point of Sendelbach being placed on leave and facing potential termination. This situation underscores the importance of fostering a collaborative and transparent relationship between fire department leadership and the governing board, in order to effectively serve the community.