Hartselle Mayor Don Hall receives encouragement from a local resident after delivering his statement at the end of Tuesday’s council meeting. | Brent Maze

Hartselle Mayor Don Hall said he is “disappointed and embarrassed for the City of Hartselle” about his arrest during his first public appearance since the Sept. 5 incident.

Hall addressed the Hartselle City Council and residents attending the council’s regular meeting Tuesday night at City Hall.

“The fact that the question of driving under the influence did come up and in the manner in which I did, brought me to the realization that I had developed a serious problem and that I needed professional assistance in dealing with the issue of alcohol,” Hall said in a prepared statement. “And that is what I have been doing for the past two weeks – receiving professional help.”

Because the issue is still pending in court, Hall said he would not comment additionally about the event or his situation prior to Sept. 5. He said after the meeting that he will resume his duties Wednesday at 7:30 a.m.

He also added that he will be able to drive himself to and from work.

“I feel I have served the City of Hartselle well during the past two years and will continue to do so,” Hall added. “But at any time I feel that I can no longer serve effectively as mayor, I will step aside from my post.”

Council President and Mayor Pro Tempore Bill Smelser said he will continue to support him.

“I will continue to keep you in my prayers,” Smelser said.

Councilman Mike Roberson echoed Smelser’s sentiments.

“We’re here for you,” he added.

Councilman Kenny Thompson said he was glad to see Don once again.

“I think of you a whole lot,” Thompson said. “I’d like to continue seeing you be mayor and I hope that we will be able to put all of this behind us soon.”

Hall has not been with the city since he was charged with driving under the influence Sept. 5 by State Troopers in Limestone County. According to troopers’ reports, callers indicated that his vehicle was driving erratically on I-65 that night.

He was arrested and taken to the Limestone County Jail, where he was released on bond the following morning. No public statement had been issued by Hall since the incident until Tuesday’s meeting.

Hall thanked those “who have shown their love and support through all the cards, emails, text messages and phone calls that Debbie has received since this whole ordeal started. They have been a comfort to both of us.”

Hall also thanked Council President Bill Smelser and Council President Pro Tempore Kenny Thompson for filling in at mayor’s and council president’s positions.

“Once again, I am truly sorry for what has taken place, and I ask you for your prayers and your forgiveness,” Hall concluded.

Mayor Don Hall addresses the council and residents during Tuesday’s council meeting. This is his first public appearance since his arrest Sept. 5. | Brent Maze

Mayor Don Hall receives a hug of encouragement from a local resident after the council meeting Tuesday. | Brent Maze