Stafford is set to honor the legacy of Leonard Scarcella, who served as mayor for an unprecedented 51 years, making him the longest-serving mayor in American history. Scarcella, who passed away on June 28, 2020, at the age of 79, left an indelible mark on the city through his transformative leadership and unwavering commitment to public service.

During his tenure, Scarcella oversaw a remarkable growth in Stafford's tax base, which skyrocketed from under $100 million to over $2.5 billion by 2020. His innovative policies included the elimination of property taxes in 1995, making Stafford the largest city in Texas to rely solely on sales tax for revenue. Additionally, he championed the establishment of Texas' only municipal school district, granting Stafford full control over local education.

Scarcella's contributions extended beyond fiscal policies; he was instrumental in developing key community facilities, such as the Stafford Center and a municipal television station. His dedication to the city was evident in his personal life, as he lived across the street from City Hall and maintained a law practice while serving as mayor.

In recognition of his profound impact, the federal government recently renamed Stafford's post office the Leonard Scarcella Post Office Building. This honor reflects the lasting influence of his work, which continues to serve as a model for cities nationwide.

As Stafford reflects on Scarcella's legacy five years after his passing, the community acknowledges the extraordinary achievements of a man whose life was dedicated to public service. His story serves as a reminder of the profound difference that committed individuals can make in their communities.