This county being as small as it is and as densely populated would benefit from a merged government. If the Politicians really cared about the people a merged services would make more sense..

Merge the Law Enforcement Services (So you don't have to worry about the City having something they are investigating finding out its in another jurisdiction (3 miles outside the city limits and have to get another agency in the mix)...

Merge our public utilities...

Merge the Fire Services (cut costs of so many chiefs )

All around it would result in improved services for the people and at a reduced cost...

It is HIGHLY unlikely the powers that be would be willing to give up that sort of thing...

I recall the Sheriff (during the helicopter deal) saying "the county needs our own stuff" ... meaning we need our own TOYS...