Zenna Elhasan

DETROIT – Attorney and former 20th District Court Magistrate Zenna Faraj Elhasan was officially confirmed as the new Wayne County Corporation Counsel on Thursday, Dec. 1 at a Wayne County Commissioners meeting at the Guardian Building in Detroit after receiving a majority vote from 14 commissioners. Elhasan will officially begin work on Monday under Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano and will be in charge of 50 employees including 32 attorneys. 

“This is a wonderful opportunity, I look forward to serving all of the people of Wayne County and to advance its interests and begin setting things in motion in the right direction,” Elhasan said, noting that she looked forward to working with new Deputy County Executive Jeffrey Collins and Economic Development Director Ray Byers and others as well as Ficano as part of his team.

She said the support of the local community has been humbling to say the least as well.

“It’s nice to see when we get together and put our minds together we can achieve and do good work for the greater good.” 

Elhasan received 10 “yes” votes out of 14 attending commissioners; Martha Scott was the lone commissioner who was unable to attend the meeting. Elhsasan needed eight votes according to the bylaws. 

Special consideration was given by commissioner Joan Gebharbt who especially touted the abilities of Elhasan at Tuesday’s committee meeting, as did Joseph Palamara. Chairman Gary Woronchak was also among those who voted for Elhsan, and Diane Webb also made comments on the record in support. 

Publisher of The Arab American News Osama Siblani said that the approval will allow the county to move forward after the recent severance pay controversy.

“It was a great decision to hire her, she brings a great deal of integrity at a time when Wayne County needs it after the bad publicity,” he said.

“She is smart, capable, and sincere and I am sure that she will do the right things as Corporation Counsel for all residents of Wayne County.”