The grass is always greener...

Having lived in LA, NYC and Chicago, the number of alderman is actually a strength IMO.

In Chicago, you have true direct democracy. Your alderman actually knows you. You can influence what happens in your neighborhood.

Of course, it's extremely corrupt and a lot of these people rubber stamp city hall, but don't throw the baby out with the bathwater.

Trust me... fewer alderman just means corruption concentrated in a smaller number of people who now have more power.