Gemma Kitsos replaces Helen Burnet on Hobart City Council

The replacement for former deputy mayor Helen Burnet, who left after scoring a seat in parliament, was elected yesterday. Meet the new councillor.

New HCC councillor Gemma Kitsos and Greens MP Helen Burnet at Hobart. Picture: Chris Kidd

Former Hobart City deputy mayor Helen Burnet will be replaced on council by one of her fellow Greens members, after Gemma Kitsos was elected after a recount this afternoon.

Ms Burnet resigned from the council after she won a seat in Tasmania’s House of Assembly in the state election last month.

A recount to fill Ms Burnet’s seat was held today and Ms Kitsos was elected from a field of 16 candidates.

Gemma Kitsos with her children Hazel 7 and Bronte 5 of South Hobart on the Intercity Cycleway at Glenorchy. Picture: Chris Kidd

The count came down Ms Kitsos and another Greens candidate, Bec Taylor, who received 742 votes at the final count, which wasn’t enough to beat Ms Kitsos’ 885 votes.

“I’m thrilled, I can’t wait to step into the role, fill in the big shoes of Helen Burnet,” she said.

“When we speak to voters on the doors, we’re hearing so strongly about our cost of living crisis, and the improvements that need to be made to our healthcare so it’s great to have a seat at the table so I can help to improve things for Hobart.”

Ms Kitsos said she’d focus on “strong Greens policies”

“To have a green and clean safe city and to advocate for more active transport solutions to improve traffic congestion and improve the health of the people in Hobart,” she said.

“Safe separated cycleways is what I really believe is the solution to our traffic congestion in the CBD.

“As a health worker it just has so many benefits for the community in terms of physical and mental health.

Ms Kitsos hoped her experience would be helpful in the new role.

“I’m an occupational therapist by background, but I work in clinical trial research for the university,” she said.

“I think when you work in research you have to be able to consume a large amount of information quickly and also be a really critical thinker because you’re analysing the evidence out there and putting that into play.”

Ms Burnet said Ms Kitsos would be a strong edition to the council.

“I think it’s a great thing for the city of Hobart to have Gemma Kitsos elected on my recount, I couldn’t be more thrilled,” Ms Burnet said.

‘Gemma brings a depth of experience and interest for her local community.

“I look forward to great things from her, I’m sure the community will benefit so much from having Gemma elected.”

A decision is still to come on who will replace Ms Burnet as deputy mayor, which will be decided on at the next council meeting on April 29.

All 12 elected members will vote on who will become deputy, depending on who has nominated for the role.