NJ City Appoints Youngest Zoning Board Member In State History

LINDEN, NJ - A Union County community recently appointed the youngest zoning board member ever in New Jersey history.

Hagr Elweshahy, 18, was appointed by Mayor Derek Armstead to the Linden zoning board during a Tuesday city council meeting following a unanimous vote from the governing body.

“Of all boards and commissions, the Zoning Board is one of the most important ones as it pertains to the development of any municipality,” Armstead said. “Ms. Elweshahy has proven herself time and time again, rising to any occasion and overcoming any challenge. I have no doubt that her contributions to the Zoning Board will be significant.”

Elweshahy is currently slated to graduate as Linden High School's 2023 valedictorian and serves as the Commander of Linden’s ROTC (Reserve Officers’ Training Corps), according to a news release. The Linden High School student is also the school’s student council president, a former National Honor Society Officer and has developed and overseen a myriad of Linden High School programs, functions and fundraisers.

“I am humbled and honored that Mayor Armstead recommended me for this appointment,” Elweshahy said in a statement. “I love my town, and I’m so excited to have the opportunity to help Linden residents and businesses in this way.”

The Linden Zoning Board of Adjustment hears and decides on appeals regarding determinations made by zoning officials in the enforcement of the zoning code.

“I take special note of exceptional people and will continue to do everything in my power to enable their inclusion in building Linden’s bright future,” Armstead said in a statement, adding his mission of empowering “qualified youth” to engage in critical local leadership positions.

“The Mayor has put a lot of faith in me, and I will not let him down,” Elweshahy added.