Government these days tends to be like a Chantilly cake: decadent and many layered.

The feds. The state. The county. Local municipalities. School systems. Transit authorities. Homeowner associations.

To add one more seems counterintuitive, as least to proponents of limited government such as the three members of this editorial board. Unless an authority is in dire financial straits or is threatening to strip citizens of property rights or personal liberties, we are hesitant to endorse the creation of new layers.

We’d rather see fewer actually. Less is more, particularly at the local level, where fragmentation can be bloody. Small, bordering entities tend to compete rather than collaborate, and in a region such as Savannah, an area long on potential but shoestring short on strategic vision, further splintering poses obstacles on both micro and a macro scales.

Put simply, more factions mean more special interests to placate.

We oppose Skidaway incorporation on this basis.

Few tangible benefits

We’ve looked for compelling reasons to support the cityhood initiative, understanding well the intelligent and thoughtful consideration given to the notion over the past several years. Residents will go to the polls Tuesday confident that they weren’t rushed or conned in making this decision.

Here’s what they know.

Fears of being plucked out of unincorporated Chatham County and forced, either by annexation or consolidation, to become part of another entity are unfounded.

The projected tax savings are negligible and come at a price, from flood insurance premium increases for some to a smaller tax base to draw from should the government encounter shortfalls.

Property owners are protected by community covenants and supported by management associations. They have a voice in how their communities are operated.

The island is a collection of master-planned communities and there is little to no risk of exploitation by outside forces. The opening of the Publix earlier this decade likely marks the crest of commercial development on Skidaway.

Why vote aye? We see only superficial benefits.

Islanders make broad contributions

Skidaway residents are among the most generous, engaged and subtly influential in the Savannah community.

They support so many cultural, educational and impactful organizations and initiatives in this city. They are true stewards, sharing time, talent and treasure on a disproportionate scale. Savannah, quite literally, wouldn’t be the same without them.

Their success demonstrates the power and influence a constituency can have working outside of government.

Skidaway residents are invaluable assets to the larger Savannah community and can have a tremendous influence without creating another layer of government.

Vote no Tuesday on Skidaway incorporation.