Janet Pearson, originally from Fort Wayne, IN, moved to Marion in 1967. She is a graduate of Marion High School. Pearson has been working for the City of Marion for 13 years. She is the Deputy Director of Development Services. Her main tasks include managing city-owned properties, leasing parking spaces Downtown, working with the Common Council on the residential tax abatement program, and partnering with multiple groups to develop and improve Marion. Pearson works closely with the CReED Board assisting them with development projects within the CReED district through state funding. She represents the City of Marion as part of the Marion Redevelopment Commission by reviewing redevelopment projects.
Over the past year, Pearson has been working closely with Thriving Families, Thriving Grant County as part of the Quality of Life Group, partnering with them to revitalize the 5th Street Commons, Downtown, Marion. A crowdfunding grant was achieved late last year to move the project forward. The 5th Street Commons (between Washington & Adams Sts.) will not just be an improved parking lot, but will be able to be utilized as an event space with lighting, seating, and a stage.
In recent months, Pearson has paired with Affordable Housing and their interns to initiate private purchasing of remaining city-owned properties by contacting homeowners adjacent to the properties. Since the “Property Program” began, Pearson has worked diligently to sell what was once about 900 properties to about 300 remaining properties, most of which are open lots. This effort is in its early stages, but aims to put many more properties back on the tax rolls.
“Janet is one of those employees every mayor wishes they had on staff. She not only gives 110% when accomplishing every day responsibilities, but goes above and beyond what’s expected to insure the City of Marion continues to provide outstanding service to its citizens.” – Mayor Jess Alumbaugh
Pearson has also been a volunteer ambassador with the Marion-Grant County Chamber of Commerce for nearly 30 years, and serves on the Affordable Housing Corporation Board.