The city’s 1 percent income tax: Some township residents are wary of having to pay it.

The city’s 1 percent income tax: Some township residents are wary of having to pay it.

Police protection: The city has a police force, but the township contracts with the Mahoning County Sheriff Department. Township Trustee Bill Reese has said the arrangement is a money-saver.

Fire protection: At least that’s one service that’s already consolidated. The Cardinal Joint Fire District serves both the city and township.

The governments: Who stays, and who goes? Will there be a city council, or trustees?

Zoning: A benefit for the city, Skrobola has said, because its zoning regulations are more operable and manageable.

Protection from annexation: The city is not vulnerable.

Population: Census Bureau figures from the 2000 census show the city has 7,374 residents and the township has 14,624 residents.