The intersection of common sense and policymakers often feels like a collision course. Bad decisions can have far-reaching consequences, impacting everything from local economies to public health. But what are the most frequent blunders? And, more importantly, how can we, as informed citizens, hold our elected officials accountable for them? One key is early engagement, as we discussed in Policy Wins: Data and Early Engagement Decides Fate.
1. Ignoring Data and Expert Opinions
One of the most persistent errors is ignoring readily available data and expert opinions. Policymaking should be evidence-based, not driven by ideology or gut feeling. This doesn’t mean blindly accepting every study, but it does mean giving due consideration to credible research and analysis.
For example, consider the debate around traffic congestion in Atlanta. Instead of relying on anecdotal evidence about rush hour at the I-285/GA-400 interchange, policymakers should consult the Georgia Department of Transportation’s (GDOT) traffic data and studies by transportation engineers at Georgia Tech. GDOT provides real-time traffic information via their Georgia Navigator system.
Pro Tip: Insist on transparency. Demand that your representatives publicly share the data and expert opinions that informed their decisions.
2. Failing to Consider Unintended Consequences
Every policy has consequences, both intended and unintended. Failing to anticipate these ripple effects can lead to disastrous outcomes. A classic example is rent control. While intended to make housing more affordable, studies have shown that rent control can actually decrease the supply of available rentals and lead to deterioration of existing properties.
We saw this play out in a smaller scale right here in the Old Fourth Ward. A proposed ordinance to limit short-term rentals in an attempt to increase long-term housing availability ended up pushing many property owners to simply sell their properties, further driving up housing costs. Had the city council conducted a more thorough analysis of potential market reactions, they might have opted for a different approach.
Common Mistake: Assuming that a policy will only have its intended effect. Always ask, “What could go wrong?”
3. Short-Term Thinking and Lack of Long-Term Planning
Politicians often prioritize short-term gains to win reelection, neglecting long-term planning. This is particularly evident in infrastructure projects. Deferring maintenance on roads, bridges, and water systems might save money in the short run, but it inevitably leads to much larger expenses down the line.
Think about the crumbling infrastructure in many parts of Fulton County. Decades of underfunding have resulted in a backlog of repairs, and now taxpayers are facing a massive bill to catch up. The Georgia Infrastructure Bank provides loans and other financial assistance for infrastructure projects, but many local governments haven’t taken full advantage of these resources due to short-sighted budget priorities. I’ve seen this firsthand, having worked with several municipalities to develop long-term capital improvement plans. The initial resistance to upfront investment is always the biggest hurdle.
Pro Tip: Support candidates who are willing to make tough decisions for the long-term benefit of the community, even if those decisions are unpopular in the short term.
4. Overregulation and Bureaucratic Red Tape
Excessive regulation and bureaucratic red tape can stifle innovation, hinder economic growth, and make it difficult for individuals and businesses to thrive. While some regulations are necessary to protect public safety and the environment, others are simply burdensome and unnecessary.
Take, for instance, the process of obtaining a permit to open a small business in Atlanta. The city’s zoning ordinances, licensing requirements, and inspection processes can be overwhelming, especially for first-time entrepreneurs. The City of Atlanta’s Department of City Planning offers resources for navigating these regulations, but the process remains complex and time-consuming.
Common Mistake: Believing that more regulation is always better. Regularly review existing regulations to identify those that are outdated, ineffective, or overly burdensome.
5. Ignoring the Needs of Marginalized Communities
Policies often disproportionately impact marginalized communities, and policymakers sometimes fail to consider these differential effects. This can perpetuate existing inequalities and create new ones. For example, transportation policies that prioritize highways over public transit can disadvantage low-income residents who rely on public transportation to get to work and access essential services.
In the Pittsburgh neighborhood of Atlanta, residents have long complained about the lack of adequate public transportation options. The MARTA bus routes in the area are infrequent and unreliable, making it difficult for residents to access jobs and healthcare in other parts of the city. The Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) is responsible for regional transportation planning, but it needs to do a better job of prioritizing the needs of marginalized communities in its decision-making process.
Pro Tip: Advocate for policies that promote equity and inclusion. Demand that your representatives consider the impact of their decisions on all segments of the population.
6. Lack of Transparency and Public Engagement
Policymaking should be a transparent and participatory process. When decisions are made behind closed doors without public input, it breeds mistrust and resentment. Public engagement is crucial for ensuring that policies reflect the needs and values of the community.
I had a client last year who was trying to get a zoning variance approved for a small business in Decatur. The city council initially denied the variance without providing a clear explanation. It wasn’t until my client organized a community meeting and presented a petition signed by dozens of residents that the council reconsidered its decision. The experience highlighted the importance of public engagement in the policymaking process. For more on this, see Turn Divisive Debates Into Dialogue.
Common Mistake: Treating public engagement as a formality rather than a genuine opportunity to gather input and build consensus.
7. Succumbing to Special Interests and Lobbying
Special interests and lobbying can exert undue influence on policymakers, leading to policies that benefit a select few at the expense of the broader public. Campaign contributions, gifts, and other forms of influence can distort the policymaking process and undermine public trust.
Consider the debate around tax incentives for film production in Georgia. While these incentives have undoubtedly boosted the state’s film industry, some argue that they are too generous and that the benefits do not outweigh the costs to taxpayers. Groups like the Georgia Chamber of Commerce actively lobby for these incentives, while organizations like the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute raise concerns about their impact on the state’s budget. It is important to Reach Policymakers: Key Strategies for Impact if you want your voice heard.
Pro Tip: Support campaign finance reform and demand greater transparency in lobbying activities. Hold your representatives accountable for their votes and their sources of funding.
8. Failing to Learn from Past Mistakes
History often repeats itself, and policymakers who fail to learn from past mistakes are doomed to repeat them. It is essential to study the successes and failures of previous policies to inform current decision-making.
Remember the “Great Recession” of 2008? Many economists argue that the crisis was caused, in part, by a lack of regulation in the financial industry. Yet, in the years since, there has been a push to roll back some of those regulations. Are we setting ourselves up for another crisis? (I think so.)
Common Mistake: Assuming that the past is irrelevant to the present. Study history, learn from it, and apply those lessons to current challenges.
These mistakes aren’t unavoidable. By staying informed, engaging with our elected officials, and demanding accountability, we can help ensure that policies are based on sound evidence, promote the public good, and serve the interests of all members of the community. It’s our responsibility to demand better from our common sense and policymakers.
What can I do to hold my elected officials accountable?
Stay informed about the issues, attend town hall meetings, contact your representatives directly, and vote in every election. Organize and advocate for your community’s needs.
How can I find reliable information about policy issues?
Consult credible news sources, academic research, government reports, and expert analysis. Be wary of biased or misleading information.
What is the role of lobbying in policymaking?
Lobbying is the act of attempting to influence policymakers on behalf of a particular interest group. While it is a legal and protected form of speech, it can also lead to policies that benefit a select few at the expense of the broader public.
How can I get involved in the policymaking process?
Attend public hearings, submit written comments, participate in community meetings, and advocate for your views to your elected officials. You can also join or support organizations that advocate for policies you believe in.
What are some examples of policies that have had unintended consequences?
Rent control, prohibition, and certain types of agricultural subsidies are examples of policies that have had unintended consequences. Careful analysis and planning are essential to minimize the risk of unintended consequences.
Don’t just complain about bad policy. Take action. Start by identifying one policy decision in your community that you believe is flawed. Research the issue, gather data, and present your findings to your elected officials. Demand a better solution. Change starts with you. For more on the future, see 2026 Challenges: News & How to Prepare.
