The change would reverse a structure that has been in place since 1975. Supporters of the current system argued that a larger council helps ensure a wider range of perspectives.
"With more people, there's a lot more diversity and opinions," resident Julia Edwards said.
The town now has eight council members plus the mayor - a number some officials describe as "unusually large" for a community of Chapel Hill's size. Others worry that reducing the number of seats could limit representation.
"I think it's better to have a larger number than putting the burden on the smaller number," resident Moyra Kileff said. "There's going to be diversity on the council, and more groups are represented."
Town leaders have cited efficiency and potential savings, including an estimated $60,000 a year in salaries and benefits, as reasons to consider cutting two seats. Council member Theo Nollert said the financial impact would be minor compared with the loss of representation.
"It is true that we would save a little bit of money if we reduced the council members," Nollert said. "I think it's not worth the trade when there are other ways to look for savings. And again, the real issue is the money we aren't getting from a fair taxation structure in North Carolina."
The council is also gathering feedback on extending the mayor's term to four years. Nollert supports the change, saying the current two-year term limits a mayor's ability to govern effectively.
"It really reduces the amount of time you can spend actually focused on the work of being an elected official," Nollert said.
A vote on the proposals could come as soon as May 6. If approved, the changes could take effect in 2027.
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