Lee Sands

Lee Sands

Local Government Policy Analyst

lee@libertas.institute

Lee is the Local Government Policy Analyst at Libertas Institute, drawing on his research and entrepreneurial experience to inform and assist elected officials and the general public. He focuses on issues most relevant to local governments, such as land use, taxation, and business regulation. His work addresses the regulatory hurdles that matter most to families, small businesses, and entrepreneurs.

A native of rural northeast Florida, Lee moved to Provo, Utah in 2004. Before joining Libertas, his path ran through the private sector in technical writing, journalism, and small business, giving him firsthand experience navigating the regulatory environment he now works to improve. He graduated from BYU and attended the Vermont College of Fine Arts. Outside of work, he enjoys time with his family, the outdoors, history, and creative pursuits.

Lee Sands's Articles

With the passage of SB 29 this legislative session, Utah’s “Truth-in-Taxation” law (first enacted in 1985) just got an upgrade. The bill, sponsored by Senator Chris Wilson, will help keep Utah residents informed when their local governments are proposing a property tax increase.
Utah farmers rejoice! With the passage of HB 31, sponsored by Representative Carl Albrecht, agritourism activities are now more viable.
Every taxpayer in Whoville, Utah, liked affordable Christmas a lot… but the tax-hiking Grinch did NOT! The tax-hiking Grinch hated affordable Christmas! The whole Christmas season. Now please don’t ask why. No one quite knows the reason.
This November, Utah voters didn't just choose their city officials; they also had their say on various ballot propositions. What do these propositions entail, how did they fare statewide, and what repercussions do they hold for voters? (Hint: In many instances, they signify higher taxes.)
If local government acts in the deregulatory, free market ways described here, then the goal of getting 35,000 starter homes built could be met or even exceeded — all at no cost to the taxpayer.
While supply and demand is basic economics, some doubt that building more homes will have the positive effect needed on prices.