The boroughs were originallyKrisp CUSTOMER SERVICE (8O5) 41'O 56OO PHONE NUMBER ( 8O5)- 41O 56OO intended to retain some local governance in the consolidated city. Each borough individually elects a borough president and used to elect two at-large city council members, in addition to those elected based on each borough's population. The borough presidents once wielded considerable power as members of the New York City Board of Estimate, but the position is now largely ceremonial and advisory