NILES — Monday night, Berrien County Sheriff’s Department Chief Deputy Robert Boyce and Sheriff Paul Bailey visited city council members during a regularly scheduled meeting to give them an update about flooding conditions.

Both Bailey and Boyce began the debriefing by recognizing Niles city officials’ continued efforts to help those in need, after high waters damaged city property, homes and businesses.

“I wanted to come down and personally thank the city manager, chief of police, and fire chief,” Bailey said. “They have done an excellent job managing the flood damage and addressing the issues. They got on top of things right away.”

Boyce said police were working with a variety of other local resources to begin damage assessments. He said each team of damage assessors includes a police officer, tax assessor and building inspector.

Reporting damages to a localized assessor should be the first step in the recovery process, Boyce said. The 211 number is available for flood victims to call and get directions as to how to begin the process of recovery. Those who need to report damage are also asked to call 1-800- 815-5485.

Officials have also advised that flood victims take an inventory of valuables and belongings, including taking photographs or a video to assist with their insurance claim. Vehicle owners should report any damages to their auto insurance company.

Council member Gretchen Bertschy asked Boyce for an update on the condition of county roads.

Boyce said officers did not have concrete information as of Monday evening on those conditions.

“Engineers are going out and checking them,” Boyce said. “Some of the roads still have water and they have to wait until they go down.”

As of Tuesday morning, the Berrien County Sheriff’s Department sent out a list of road closures. More than a dozen roads had stretches that were still closed.

Authorities continue to remind residents not to risk their safety by ignoring road barricades. Even as the water recedes, there is a potential that the road could be unstable after sustaining major water damage.

Council member Georgia Boggs asked Boyce about the status of River Springs Estates in Berrien Township. Boyce said residents in some of the higher ground areas that were not damaged could be permitted to return to their homes soon.

The Berrien County Sheriff’s Department released a statement Tuesday stating that the Berrien County Animal Control would be housing animals for residents who had been displaced by flooding.

Those looking to reunite with their pets can do so by contacting the shelter and may contact (269) 927-5648.