Bergmann Center has notified North Country Community Mental Health (NCCMH) that it is terminating its contract and will permanently close its programs effective May 16, 2026. Contract termination was initiated by Bergmann Center and was accepted by North Country Community Mental Health.

NCCMH recognizes that this news comes during a time when there has also been significant public discussion and disagreement. The organization understands that this combination of events may feel upsetting, confusing, or overwhelming for many community members and families. The organization wants to state clearly that NCCMH has acted in good faith and followed all requirements for public funds. Of particular concern is the assertion by Bergmann Center that NCCMH has not passed through the required wage rate to Bergmann Center.  The minimum hourly wage rate to be paid to providers was clarified in a memo from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) dated February 6, 2026.  This memorandum clearly states that providers must be funded at a minimum of $17.13 per hour.  This amount includes the direct care wage pass through and minimum wage effective January 1, 2026.  In short, NCCMH has always paid to Bergmann Center the state required wage rate and direct care pass through amount.  Further, the books and records of NCCMH are regularly reviewed through regulatory audits and oversight as a public agency. In the last year alone, NCCMH has successfully undergone reviews by Northern Michigan Regional Entity, MDHHS, CARF accreditation, the recipient rights system, independent financial and compliance audits. 

At this time, continuity of services is NCCMH’s highest priority. Staff have been actively coordinating transition planning to ensure that services continue smoothly after Bergmann Center’s closure. This includes:

• Identifying appropriate service provider options within the NCCMH provider network.
• Ensuring provider staffing capacity to meet the need of affected individuals.
• Referring individuals to qualified providers that can meet their needs.
• Supporting choice, dignity, and individualized planning throughout the transition.
• Taking steps to preserve existing social connections and peer groups whenever possible.
  
  

NCCMH has identified local providers who are preparing for and excited to welcome individuals and groups transitioning from Bergmann Center and who offer community-based services in North Country’s service area. These providers have significant experience delivering community living services (CLS), and they are willing to expand their service arrays to match those offered through the Bergmann Center.  

The NCCMH provider network includes contracted day program providers in other counties, and NCCMH staff would also be happy to make referrals to those that are accepting new clients. There is also an option for service delivery called Self-Determination which allows an individual to hire and manage their own staff and budget.  Affected families are encouraged to review options carefully. 

NCCMH knows that the relationships and routines developed at Bergmann Center are meaningful. Maintaining social bonds, familiar peers, and community connections is an important part of emotional well‑being, and NCCMH is prioritizing this with providers in planning next steps. 

Case Managers are currently reaching out to families directly to begin individualized conversations, answer questions, and help plan transitions that align with each person’s needs, preferences, and Individual Plan Of Service (IPOS) goals. 

Individuals will not be left without services; however, there may be a delay while NCCMH coordinates referrals with providers. Additionally, there is limited capacity while the providers actively recruit new staff.  NCCMH’s goal is to minimize interruptions as much as possible, but an official notification called an Adverse Benefit Determination (ABD) has been issued as services are likely to be reduced or suspended for a period during the transition. 

The organization thanks everyone involved for their trust and patience during this period of change. This transition is significant, and NCCMH staff are here to support affected individuals every step of the way. 

North Country Community Mental Health provides services to residents of Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Emmet, Kalkaska and Otsego Counties experiencing a serious mental illness, severe emotional problem, or intellectual/developmental disability, including individuals with co-occurring substance use disorder.  Persons wishing to know more about North Country Community Mental Health are encouraged to visit norcocmh.org or to access services call 877-470-7130. The 24-hour crisis number is 877-470-4668. To reach Customer Services, call 877-470-3195.