New St. Paul City Council Member Amy Brendmoen, who takes office in January after defeating 5th Ward incumbent Lee Helgen earlier this month, has named Kim O’Brien as her legislative aide.

Brendmoen and O’Brien have worked together at the Children’s Home Society & Family Services nonprofit since 2009.

“Kim O’Brien brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in public policy, advocacy and constituent service to this position. She is a smart and compassionate leader who is truly committed to actively serving and engaging all of the members of our community,” said Brendmoen in a statement.

O’Brien has a master’s degree in public policy from the Humphrey School of Public Affairs and has been community relations manager for Children’s Home since 2008, managing fundraising and community events, and serving as spokesperson for the agency.

Brendmoen is director of communications and marketing at Children’s Home. She said today that she’ll likely cut back her hours at the agency, to maybe 16 hours a week, when she takes office and begins working at the part-time council position.

O’Brien, though, will be full time at the council aide position. She’s giving her notice at Children’s Home this week, Brendmoen said.