Endorsement: Yes to retain at-large elections in Naperville

• Article

Based on a 2010 vote, Naperville is on the verge of changing the way it elects the city council. Beginning in 2015, five councilmen would be selected from newly drawn districts; three more would be chosen at large. Before the changes take effect, voters are being asked whether they'd prefer to keep the existing method of electing all eight councilmen in citywide elections. Proponents of a district system say it would give residents a more direct connection to the council. However, forming districts also creates divisions that do not currently, or naturally, exist in Naperville. It fosters competition among councilmen and narrows the scope of their commitment to their ward rather than the city as a whole. We believe Naperville is best served in its current at-large election system. We recommend residents vote YES to retain it.