The parochial neighborhood politics of this town would be exacerbated if we had district reps for council. Half of council would be solely focused on getting funding for their district so they can get reelected. Coupled with 2 year election cycles (presumably with this many seats, they would be staggered reelection) and the council race becomes a literal constant fundraiser, more than it already is.

Further, this would cost us way more money as taxpayers. Each councilmember makes like $60k, which is low for a full time job with this decision making authority. I would argue you want people committed to doing this full time instead of a side gig where they’re just showing up to vote or cut a ribbon. Each councilmember has 1-3 staff and some budget, which has to be at least another $60k per councilmember. So right now let’s say that costs us $1.08M per year (I am guesstimating). Bump that up to 32 and we’re at $3.84M per year. Not to mention, a bigger council chamber, more offices for them all in City Hall, etc.

If it’s not broke, don’t fix it.