Kingborough’s first female mayor in 114 years will resign in May, ending a long career in public life and moving into a key state leadership role.
Kingborough Mayor Paula Wriedt will resign from her position on May 27, bringing to an end more than a decade in local government and a long career in public life.
Cr Wriedt announced her decision on Friday, confirming she would step away ahead of this year’s local government elections and take up a new role as Chief Executive Officer of the Tasmanian Council of Social Service (TasCOSS).
“It has been an absolute honour to serve as the Mayor of Kingborough and this decision to step away has been an incredibly difficult one for me,” she said.
“With Local Government elections due in October this year, I realised I didn’t want to take on a tenth campaign.”
Cr Wriedt also pointed to the changing nature of public life.
“Toxic behaviour hurts individuals, families and our democracy” she said.
“Over the last six to eight months I’ve increasingly seen nasty comments on social media directed at Councillors from some in the community, as well as some people with their own political aspirations.
“I don’t want to be part of that anymore, and the timing feels right to leave and pursue a new career.”
Cr Wriedt said she was proud of the projects delivered during her time in office, including upgrades to Kingston’s main street, floating wetlands, high performance sporting facilities and improvements to parks and tracks.
She also highlighted work focused on inclusion, including council’s Multicultural Strategy, LGBTIQA+ Strategy and improved accessibility at Kingston Beach.
Deputy Mayor Clare Glade-Wright, who is expected to step into the role of Acting Mayor, said her priority would be maintaining stability for the community.
“My priorities during this transition will be ensuring continuity for our community, and to maintain my track record of being visible and accessible,” she said.
“Kingborough is a strong community, and I am committed to leading a council that fosters respectful engagement with everyone.”
Cr Glade-Wright said it had been a privilege to work alongside Cr Wriedt.
“I thank her for her service to the community.
“I have learned a lot from her as an experienced politician, and I wish her all the very best for the future,” she said.
Cr Wriedt will commence as TasCOSS CEO on June 3, replacing outgoing chief executive Adrienne Picone.
Under the Local Government Act, no by-election will be required due to the proximity of the October elections.
Councillors would elect a new Deputy Mayor if required.
