By David Madrid
The Arizona Republic
Whether Glendale’s mayor was a daring visionary who helped build a suburb into a sports-entertainment force or a leader who helped dig the city into an economic hole are among questions that linger as she leaves office after 20 years, but most agree her legacy will be cast in the years to come.
For some, Elaine Scruggs was a bulldog protecting Luke Air Force Base.
Others will tell you she knows more about funding the Valley’s freeway systems than just about anyone.
Then, there is the city’s transformation into a sports powerhouse.
Each area shows ambition to elevate Glendale from a nice, affordable spot to raise a family to a destination and employment hub.
However, it is the city’s more recent and gutsy venture to remake itself through professional sports that casts the shadow of the unknown on how Scruggs will be remembered by Glendale residents and other Valley leaders.
