Elon Musk’s audacious dream materialized Saturday as South Texas voters transformed SpaceX’s rocket hub into Starbase, an official city. A landslide vote of 173 to 4, primarily from SpaceX employees, cemented the incorporation of this 1.5-square-mile coastal enclave near Brownsville. Musk, SpaceX’s CEO, celebrated, declaring, “Starbase, Texas, is now a real city!” This victory marks a personal triumph for the billionaire, who first pitched the idea in 2021.
South Texas Embraces SpaceX’s Bold Vision with Starbase Incorporation
Starbase, now a Type C municipality, empowers SpaceX to control zoning, infrastructure, and public services. The city, home to about 500 residents, including Musk, boasts company housing, launch facilities, and a golden bust of the tycoon. Bobby Peden, a SpaceX vice president, secured the mayoral seat unopposed with 216 votes. Two city commissioners, also SpaceX affiliates, will join him to govern. This shift wrests local authority from Cameron County, fueling SpaceX’s push for up to 25 annual rocket launches, a fivefold increase.
The vote sparked protests at Boca Chica Beach, where activists decried Musk’s growing influence. Demonstrators, wielding an Elon Musk piñata, argued that Starbase’s creation threatens public access to the beach, often closed for launches. Proposed state legislation could transfer beach closure authority to Starbase’s council, alarming environmentalists. The South Texas Environmental Justice Network rallied against SpaceX, citing harm to sensitive habitats and cultural landmarks. Critics fear Starbase will morph into a Musk-controlled enclave, isolating the surrounding community.
Supporters see Starbase as a beacon of innovation
Supporters, however, see Starbase as a beacon of innovation. SpaceX’s $4 billion investment has generated thousands of jobs, boosting the region’s economy. Kathryn Lueders, Starbase’s general manager, emphasized the need for a self-sustaining community to support humanity’s multiplanetary ambitions. The city will manage roads, utilities, and even schooling, fostering a futuristic hub for rocket builders. A post hailed the vote, stating, “We’ll build the best community for humanity’s place in space.”
SpaceX's audacious plan to build Starbase City, a futuristic hub near its Starbase facility in Boca Chica, Texas!
Musk’s Texas empire continues to expand. With SpaceX’s headquarters relocating from California, Starbase joins Tesla and X facilities in the state. Despite recent backlash over Tesla’s profits and Musk’s federal budget cuts, Starbase’s birth offers a bright spot. A judge will soon formalize the election results, launching Texas’ newest city into orbit. Starbase stands poised to redefine South Texas, blending cosmic dreams with earthly realities.
