ABOUT US

Shari Olson brings years of leadership experience to her role as Interim Executive Director, having previously served as Executive Director for Cloquet Hockey and the Duluth Heritage Sports Center, later renamed the Essentia Duluth Heritage Center. Known for her expertise in community engagement, planning, and organizational management, Shari excels in building connections, understanding diverse needs, and creating impactful programs. Her professional development includes specialized training in Fair Housing, HUD Executive Directorship, Inspections, Ethics, and Public Housing planning. A lesser-known fact about her is that she grew up in France and Germany as the child of a military family, an experience that instilled in her a deep respect for structure, discipline, and diverse cultures. She credits her upbringing with shaping her rule-following nature and empathetic approach to leadership. She is passionate about tackling homelessness and supporting those facing financial struggles. In her free time, she enjoys reading, gardening, and cooking. Shari’s compassion, patience, and unwavering kindness define her leadership and drive her dedication to making a difference.

Sally Pearson has been with the Cloquet/Carlton Housing Authority for nearly a decade, handling public housing move-ins, recertifications, and various administrative duties. Now serving as the Public Housing Specialist, she brings a strong background in customer service, bookkeeping, accounting, office management, and computer skills. Dedicated and detail-oriented, Sally plays a key role in assisting residents and ensuring smooth housing operations.

Jesse Higbee brings over 20 years of experience in residential, industrial, and construction maintenance. He is HVAC and EPA certified, holds a boiler license, and has completed numerous courses in electrical troubleshooting and workplace safety. His hands-on expertise and passion for problem-solving have earned him leadership roles, including Director of Maintenance, Plant Operator, and Maintenance Lead. Jesse is known for his strong work ethic, ability to diagnose and resolve issues efficiently, and his genuine enjoyment of working with people. His education includes certifications in HVAC, boiler operation, and small business management, with real-world experience serving as his greatest teacher. Outside of work, Jesse enjoys building and remodeling homes, working on classic cars, fishing, hunting, and spending quality time with his family. Few know that he has been raising his 9- and 10-year-old grandchildren after being widowed 12 years ago—a testament to his resilience and dedication. His passion for family and his commitment to giving 100% in everything he does define his approach to both life and work.

Charity Marie Okon is a dedicated Section 8 Coordinator for Carlton County and a Housing Choice Voucher Specialist, committed to ensuring individuals and families have access to safe, stable housing. With a background deeply rooted in human services and social work, Charity's career is driven by a passion for advocacy, resource connection, and empowering those in need. Her journey began as a caretaker, a role she embraced for a decade before pursuing education in Human Services, Social Work, and Clinical Social Work. Over the years, she has gained extensive experience working in assisted living facilities, nursing homes, treatment centers, hospitals, and as a traveling hospice social worker. Outside of her professional roles, she is an active community advocate, volunteer, and coach—dedicated to uplifting others and ensuring basic human needs are met. Charity’s key strengths include case management, resource coordination, mental health and addiction awareness, and a relentless dedication to helping others. A compassionate and hardworking problem solver, she listens actively, persists through challenges, and strives to make a meaningful impact in every life she touches.

Kathy Sheff has a diverse professional background spanning customer service, retail management, and janitorial services. She gained experience as a paint store clerk and consultant before transitioning to her current role as a janitor at a school for disabled adults. Kathy is passionate about people, family, and creating a welcoming environment. Living on a lake, she enjoys pontoon rides, fishing, relaxing, and crafting. Known for her open heart and open door, she cherishes time with her four adult children and eight grandchildren. Her kindness, warmth, and authenticity make her truly one of a kind.

Keith Marti brings a wealth of experience in maintenance and operations, with 21 years at Cloquet School District as a custodian, maintenance worker, and boiler operator. Before that, he spent 19 years as a forklift mechanic at Sam’s Club and served 14 years in the military. With strong mechanical skills, a first-class boiler license, and forklift certifications, Keith takes pride in problem-solving and keeping things running smoothly. A dedicated outdoorsman, he enjoys fishing, hunting, and spending time with his dogs. Known for his honesty and positive attitude, he values teamwork and a strong work environment.

Cindy Fliginger brings extensive administrative experience to her role as Office Manager. After a 33-year career with Northwestern Bell/US West/Qwest, she joined the HRA in 2008 as a part-time employee and has since become a cornerstone of the team. Her deep knowledge of past operations and insight into future improvements make her an invaluable resource for organizational success. Cindy enjoys reading and creating paper crafts in her free time, bringing the same creativity and attention to detail to her hobbies as she does to her work.

Kathy Tuttle is a dedicated housekeeper at Aspen Arms, where she ensures a clean and comfortable environment for residents. With expertise in maintaining a four-story building, she takes pride in her work. A high school graduate, Kathy values family above all else. In her free time, she enjoys relaxing with loved ones and watching TV.

Kenneth Carter brings hands-on experience and dedication to his role as a maintenance worker with the Cloquet HRA. A U.S. Marine Corps Reservist, Kenneth began his career after high school with the Marines' Communications and Electronics School, then worked in maintenance for Fond du Lac before joining the HRA team. His skills include plumbing, metalworking, painting, drywall, auto repair, and general home and yard maintenance. Kenneth takes pride in hard work and personal growth, always pushing toward long-term goals. Outside of work, he enjoys working on trucks, spending time outdoors, gaming, and collecting WWII memorabilia. Driven and committed, Kenneth brings energy and pride to everything he does—at work and in life.