Starbase, Texas, previously a SpaceX facility area, has been officially recognized as a municipality. A popular vote on May 3 granted Starbase full municipal status. This gives it its own mayor and two commissioners.
The vote followed Elon Musk's December request to the Cameron County judge. He argued that SpaceX was vitalizing the area's economy. The surrounding community had essentially become a town, pending legal approval.
283 residents voted, mostly SpaceX employees. 216 voted in favor of Starbase becoming a municipality. Bobby Peden, SpaceX's vice president, was elected mayor. Jordan Buss and Jenna Petrzelka, also from SpaceX, were chosen as commissioners.
Starbase is now a Class B municipality due to its population being under 5,000. Officials can impose local property taxes up to 1.5%. This decision grants Elon Musk increased control over the area.
While SpaceX employees are pleased, nearby residents and environmental groups are concerned. They worry about the impact of launches and potential environmental damage. Concerns include debris, wildfires, and harm to local wildlife.