SpaceX employees in Boca Chica, Texas, voted to incorporate their community as a new city named Starbase, granting the area the authority to implement municipal ordinances In an overwhelming show of support,
The vote, held on 3 May, attracted participation from 283 eligible voters, comprised mostly of SpaceX employees and their families. A resounding 97.7 percent of them backed the incorporation initiative.
Starbase, which lies close to the Gulf of Mexico, remained heavily connected with SpaceX operations. With a population nearing 500, over half were employed by the aerospace company.
Senior SpaceX executive Bobby Peden was elected as the city’s inaugural mayor without opposition. “It is an honour to lead Starbase into this new chapter,” said Peden.
The establishment of Starbase was anticipated to enhance logistical operations, particularly in the administration of road closures during rocket launches, which had previously posed coordination challenges.
Despite widespread support, the move encountered resistance from local advocacy groups. The South Texas Environmental Justice Network expressed concern that the incorporation could jeopardise public access to Boca Chica Beach. The group emphasised the beach’s historical and cultural value to the region.
