THE LAST WORD:

One of the longest-serving and most influential figures in Costa Mesa’s short history is ailing.

Donn Hall, a former mayor and head of the Planning Commission, has been battling prostate cancer for a while and, as of mid-week, was hospitalized. Doctors at that time were unsure whether the cancer was affecting his medical condition.

Hall served on the Planning Commission in the 1970s, was mayor in the 1980s and served again on the Planning Commission up to 2009.

“I hope Don pulls through,” said City Councilwoman Wendy Leece. “We hold him dear because he has served our city so well for so long.”

We’d like to echo those sentiments.

You’re in our thoughts and prayers, Donn.