Thanks robkoz, for the better explanation as to your plight. You CAN open the class, but the exercise has been duplicated so many times, with the same result, that leads to declining entries. When everything else is equal (similar chassis & drivers), better motors win, and some can't compete. The worst part, all are lighter in the wallet if they want to remain competitive. Your group seems destined to build the entry-level class, then transition, as Steve eluded to above, to a second class, that's more open. Most that have been in karting can write the script here, as to the ending. Majority of the field will migrate to Blueprinted Animals, because their egos lead the way, leaving the pie sliced too thin. Maybe they'll combine classes, so racing on the same track, at the same time, because the classes makes for more fun. History dictates membership will ultimately suffer. The variable, how deep the pockets are in your area, and sustainability, along with support. It really comes down to what the membership @ your club wants to get out of racing. If it's a bunch of fun, keep arguing hard, in favor of the 206, for newbies to racing, then put on a show every week so that others want the same experience. For lack of a better phrase, bring great & repeatable entertainment to the track, let the racing speak for itself.
Good luck this season!