About Stafford
Nationally acclaimed for its unique achievements, visionary leadership, and prudent fiscal management, the City of Stafford is a dynamic, friendly community ideally located and encompassing what is described as an "Island of Business Opportunity" and as a family-oriented place to live.
Stafford's Accolades
- Stafford Named Third Best Place to Start a Business in Texas (PDF) - NerdWallet, July 23, 2015
- Lessons To Be Learned From Mayor Scarcella of Stafford, Texas - Hon. Ron Paul, June 19, 2009
- No Property Taxes? Even some in Stafford don't see how - Houston Chronicle, June 7, 2009
- 10 Great Low-Tax Places to Retire - U.S. News and World Report, November 28, 2008
- 100 Best Places to Live and Launch - CNN Money, July 2, 2008
- How Stafford Can Afford To End Property Taxes (PDF) - The Wall Street Journal, July 12, 1995
Home Rule City
The City of Stafford is a home rule city. Home rule cities are cities with populations of more than 5,000 in which citizens have adopted home rule charters. Click on the links below to find out more information about home rule cities and view the City of Stafford's Home Rule Charter. View Stafford's Home Rule Charter (PDF)
History of Stafford
In 1820, when the land that is now Texas was under the rule of Spain, Stephen F. Austin took advantage of a Spanish offer to settle a vast area of the territory in exchange for expansive land grants. William J. Stafford became intrigued with the offer and was one of Austin's "Old 300" families that made the migration west and settled here. View the Complete History of Stafford.
Creation of the Stafford Municipal School District
Stafford has the only municipal school district in the state. Its creation by the City in 1977 and its five-year successful federal and state battle for implementation is one of the most storied in Texas educational annals. When the people of Stafford voted for the creation of the municipal district and supported it through some of the fiercest court and political opposition was seen in this state, they envisioned a strong partnership between the City and the District to make joint decisions and provide special opportunities for the children. View The Complete Story of the Creation of Stafford Municipal School District.
Diversity
Stafford's citizenry is enriched by many diverse cultures and heritages. The 2000 Census revealed a truly international community with nearly equal numbers of Anglos, Asians, African-Americans, and Hispanics. The 2010 Census shows an even more expanded diversification. Diversity also is reflected in a wide spectrum of religious faiths. There are over 45 houses of worship in the City including a Buddhist Temple, a Hindu Temple, a Muslim Mosque, an Orthodox Church, an Arabic Evangelical Church, a Chinese Baptist Church, and many Christian denominations. Read the Stafford Story by Mayor Leonard Scarcella.