SpaceX's launch facility in South Texas has transformed into something more than just a rocket testing site. After years of development and expansion, Elon Musk's vision of creating a dedicated space community has materialized into reality, bringing both opportunities and concerns to the region.
Overwhelming Approval for New Space City
Residents near SpaceX's South Texas launch facility have voted overwhelmingly to establish Starbase as an official city. The election results showed a decisive victory with 212 votes in favor and only 6 against, according to the Cameron County Elections Department. The voting pool consisted of 283 eligible voters, most of whom are believed to be SpaceX employees. Elon Musk celebrated the victory on his social platform X, declaring that Starbase is now a real city! This development marks a significant milestone for Musk, who first proposed the idea of establishing Starbase as a municipality back in 2021.
Starbase City Vote Results: 212 in favor, 6 against (out of 283 eligible voters)
Company Town Concerns and Environmental Impact
The creation of what essentially amounts to a company town has raised concerns among environmental advocates and local residents. Critics worry that the new city status will expand SpaceX's control over the area, potentially giving the company authority to close popular public spaces like Boca Chica Beach and Boca Chica State Park for launches and operations. SpaceX is simultaneously seeking federal permission to increase its annual South Texas launches from five to 25, which would further impact access to these areas. The South Texas Environmental Justice Network organized protests against both the city vote and potential beach access restrictions, with dozens participating in a demonstration on election day.
SpaceX Launch Request: Seeking to increase from 5 to 25 annual launches at the South Texas site
Legislative Support and Municipal Authority
Companion efforts to the city vote include bills in the Texas Legislature that would shift authority for beach closures from Cameron County to the new town's mayor and city council. One proposed bill would make it a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail, for failing to comply with beach evacuation orders. Cameron County Judge Eddie Trevino Jr. has expressed that the county has worked well with SpaceX and sees no need for changing the current regulatory structure. SpaceX officials have argued that granting the city authority over beach closures would streamline launch operations, as rocket launches, engine tests, and equipment movement currently require closure of local highways and access points.
EPA Fines Facing SpaceX: Nearly $150,000 for alleged illegal pollutant dumping
Starbase's Structure and Leadership
The newly established city covers approximately 1.5 square miles (3.9 square kilometers) at the southern tip of Texas near the Mexico border. As a Type-C city with fewer than 5,000 residents, Starbase will have its own mayor—Bobby Peden, who is SpaceX's vice president—and two commissioners. SpaceX has already been managing roads, utilities, schooling, and medical care for those living on the property, according to a letter from Starbase General Manager Kathryn Lueders to local officials. The company has significantly expanded its presence in the area since beginning land purchases in 2012, with reports indicating that more than 3,400 SpaceX employees and contractors have established themselves around the base in recent years.
City Classification: Type-C city (municipality with less than 5,000 residents)
Economic Benefits and Cultural Concerns
While SpaceX has generally drawn support from local officials for bringing jobs and investment to the area, the company's growing influence has raised concerns about access to culturally significant locations. Christopher Basaldú, a member of the Carrizo/Comecrudo Nation of Texas tribe and an organizer of protests against the city vote, emphasized that the area where the Rio Grande meets the Gulf is not just important but sacred to indigenous people. Local residents like Josette Hinojosa, whose family has enjoyed the beach for generations, expressed frustration about inconsistent access, noting that Some days it's closed, and some days you get turned away.
City Size: Approximately 1.5 square miles (3.9 square kilometers)
Environmental Challenges and Legal Issues
SpaceX's expansion in the region has not been without environmental controversies. In July 2024, conservation groups including the Center for Biological Diversity and American Bird Conservancy filed a lawsuit against the Federal Aviation Administration, alleging that it rushed SpaceX's Starship permitting process without adequate environmental review. Additionally, SpaceX faces nearly $150,000 in fines from the Environmental Protection Agency for allegedly dumping pollutants into a Texas waterway without a permit. These environmental concerns add another dimension to the debate over the company's growing influence in South Texas.