AAP image/Rob Blakers
Hobart’s Lord Mayor is vowing to defend an assault charge.
A dust-up between Anna Reynolds and now-councillor Louise Elliott at a meeting about the University of Tasmania’s CBD move in May 2022 has now resulted in a common assault charge.
Cr. Elliott claims the Lord Mayor grabbed her arm, but Cr. Reynolds denies physically detaining her and has previously apologised for any concern caused by what she’s called a “brief exchange”.
Cr. Reynolds has taken to social media to express disappointment at the charge, noting that it’s a summary offence rather than a crime, so she’ll be eligible to remain in office.
“I am committed to working on our ambitious Council agenda and will continue to be a proactive advocate for the interests of the Hobart community,” she said.
“While the complaint relates to an alleged incident before Councillor Elliot was elected to Council, I am committed to working with Councillor Elliot respectfully and productively in the best interests of the community.”
The Lord Mayor will face court in May.
