Officials: Taxpayers need say on CHS

Calling Carolinas HealthCare System a public organization that often behaves like a private one, top Mecklenburg County officials say the multibillion-dollar hospital chain ought to be more accountable to taxpayers. The system is run by a self-chosen board, gets substantial tax breaks, and exerts its influence through powerful lobbyists and a political action committee that contributes to candidates. But while it's legally a governmental agency, the Charlotte-based hospital system gives the public little say in its decisions, some county officials contend.