Adrian Schrinner is set to become Brisbane's next lord mayor when Graham Quirk retires from politics after eight years in the city's top job.
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Currently the city's deputy mayor, Mr Schrinner was elected at a party room meeting of LNP councillors on Sunday.
On Friday, Mr Quirk announced he would step down after eight years in the role and more than three decades in local government.
The timing of his resignation means the party got to choose his replacement instead of the public.
41-year-old Mr Schrinner on Sunday said he was "deeply humbled" to be elected to take over the Lord Mayoralship.
"I love this city. I was born here, I grew up here and now I'm raising my own family here. Brisbane is in my blood," Mr Schrinner said in statement.
"My goal as Lord Mayor will be simple - to make sure the Brisbane of tomorrow is even better than the Brisbane of today."
Mr Schrinner paid tribute to Mr Quirk.
"I could not have had a better mentor, teacher and friend to prepare me for the important job of Lord Mayor," he said.
"I've learned so much from him over eight years serving by his side, and I thank him for being so generous with his time and his wisdom over those years."
Mr Schrinner said he will be driven by a focus on building the critical infrastructure needed by the city and on protecting its unique lifestyle and green space.
He announced a plan for five new "green bridges" to reduce traffic congestion and improve public and active transport.
The program, which will cost at least $550 million, will include the already announced Kangaroo Point to CBD river crossing, as well as Toowong to West End, St Lucia to West End, Breakfast Creek and Bellbowrie.
"I plan to spearhead the biggest investment in parks and green space our city has ever seen," Mr Schrinner said.
"Party leader Deb Frecklington said she congratulated Mr Schrinner "on being appointed Lord Mayor of Australia's biggest Council".
"I look forward to working with him and the rest of Council to tackle several significant issues, including busting traffic congestion.
"I also take this opportunity to again thank former Lord Mayor Graham Quirk for his passion and professionalism in the top job over the past eight years."
The incoming mayor, who will be sworn in next month, was first elected to council in 2005.
He currently holds the deputy mayor position and beat Peter Matic in the ballot.
Krista Adams will replace Mr Schrinner as deputy mayor.
Australian Associated Press
