I think this quote sums it up: "When you look at it rationally, there is every reason to consolidate, except that it flies in the face of emotion."

Look at the 77 year old from Royal Oak, the demographic that actually turns out to vote enough to have a say in government. His thought process is "We'd just become one huge metropolitan suburb with no identity. There may be some savings to it, but I just don't think it's worth it. I don't like that idea at all." As if there's no difference between Brooklyn and Manhattan, or even DUMBO and Park Slope (both of which are neighborhoods in Brooklyn).

Emotion is going to win. Always has, always will.