Public Opinion

Public opinion is unavoidable as long as the public policies impacted the people, even a minority group. Soliciting the opinion and views of the public is a critical step in considering a proposal or later in making an inclusive decision. This is logical especially the proposed action will impact the daily routine or affect the people in the future. For example, if the construction of a project will affect the way how i travel or commute to the work place, then it is only right for me to be consulted. Similarly, if the placing of a community hall in the vicinity of my neighbourhood, then it is also necessary for my view to be heard. For example, the residents might want to know what capacity of the hall and type of facilities provided and how does the Council control the traffic circulation. So, it is all right to solicit views over the proposal.

The only problem is if we have different views on the same subject. How should we go about if majority of the group in flavour but met with objection from a handful of residents. It is very difficult to get 100% agreement over a same subject leave alone soliciting the majority one. That's why we saw the argument over the issue of gated and guarded community, dispute between hawkers for stalls arrangement, connection of the missing link, upgrading of park facilities, imposing of fair tariff for licensing and etc. The list can go on when it comes to city management.

However a decision has to be made, even how hard it is if a city is to be progressed. Decision makers and managers of the City Council have to make a decision after listening to the public opinion. They have to, at their best to put the foot down even though it might not be the most popular decision. For example, if an action is life threatening, then no compromise should be allowed. If a programmes is clearly went against the law, then stricter enforcement is required. If a proposed programme is aimed at betterment for the majority, then minority views should be put aside, of course with the best adjustment possible.

I presume everybody should understand their role. It is the responsibility of the residents to voice out their views during appropriate process and timing. For example, to participate in the public objection period for local plan or MRT Railway exhibition. To call up the authority for any wrong doing at your neighbourhood. Do not keep quiet when you are asked to participate but making a lot of noise whenever later the proposal comes to your door step. Public apathy becomes one of the bigger hindrance for public opinion to be heard effectively, I presume.