Commissioners authorize expedited eviction steps if Sunny Meadows resident on oxygen keeps vaping

DeKalb County commissioners on June 9 told staff to pursue expedited eviction proceedings if a resident at the county-run Sunny Meadows home continues to violate the facility's no-smoking/vaping policy while using oxygen.

Staff reported multiple incidents in which a resident who uses oxygen had been caught vaping inside the facility; staff said the resident's guardian had been notified but had not prevented further incidents. Staff said three vaping devices were in staff possession after recent violations and that a signed acknowledgment of the no-smoking policy had been obtained that morning.

The county attorney explained the typical eviction timeline (30-day notice) but said exceptions exist for immediate dangers to property or other residents and that the county can seek an expedited small-claims eviction in those circumstances. Commissioners directed the county attorney to prepare a small‑claims eviction with an expedited request if another violation occurs; they also asked the commission president to contact the guardian to emphasize the seriousness of the situation and the potential for eviction.

Discussion versus decision: discussion addressed resident safety, the presence of oxygen, guardian notification attempts and available remedies. The formal action authorized the county attorney to file for eviction under expedited conditions if staff documents another violation of the smoking/vaping policy.

Implementation details: staff said they will update and consolidate Sunny Meadows' policies and require current residents to sign the revised rules; county leadership will contact the resident's guardian immediately and, if another violation occurs, the county attorney will file an expedited small claims eviction request.