Who Can Serve On LifeWays’ Board?
LifeWays is governed by a 12-member Board appointed by the Jackson and Hillsdale County Boards of Commissioners. The structure of the Board is established through the Michigan Mental Health Code, the LifeWays Interlocal Agreement, and LifeWays Bylaws.
How many members serve on the Board?
The Board consists of 12 members:
8 appointed by Jackson County
4 appointed by Hillsdale County
This allocation is based on population as required by law.
References:
Michigan Mental Health Code, MCL 330.1212 and MCL 330.1214
LifeWays Bylaws, Article III
Who can serve on the Board?
Michigan law requires community mental health boards to include a variety of perspectives and experiences.
The Board includes representation from:
Consumers of behavioral health services
Family members of consumers
County commissioners
Community representatives
Other qualified individuals who help ensure compliance with state requirements
References:
LifeWays Bylaws, Article III
Michigan Mental Health Code, MCL 330.1222
Are all Hillsdale seats reserved for commissioners and consumers?
No.
LifeWays bylaws provide Hillsdale County with four appointments to the Board.
The bylaws limit Hillsdale County to no more than two commissioners serving on the Board. Consumer representation requirements must also be met (minimum 1).
These requirements establish minimum consumer representation standards and commissioner limits, but does not exclude Hillsdale County from being able to appoint other representatives, such as citizens.
References:
Michigan Mental Health Code, MCL 330.1222
LifeWays Interlocal Agreement
Why is consumer representation required?
The Michigan Mental Health Code requires consumer participation in community mental health governance to ensure individuals with lived experience have a voice in policy development and oversight.
LifeWays also follows additional requirements contained in its Interlocal Agreement, including at least one primary consumer representated from both Jackson and Hillsdale counties.
References:
Michigan Mental Health Code, MCL 330.1214
LifeWays Bylaws, Article III
Who appoints Board members?
Board members are appointed by the Jackson and Hillsdale County Boards of Commissioners in accordance with applicable law, bylaws, and board composition requirements.
Learn More
LifeWays remains committed to transparency and public accountability. Board meeting information, bylaws, policies, and governance documents are available to the public.