The area where SpaceX's operations thrive has officially transformed into a city called Starbase in Texas! In a vote held recently, the majority of the 283 eligible voters, predominantly SpaceX employees, nodded yes to the incorporation. Only six votes were against, marking a major win for billionaire Elon Musk, who joyfully announced, “Starbase, Texas is now a real city!” on his platform X.
Covering about 1.6 square miles, Starbase was mostly deserted until SpaceX stepped in back in 2012. The city is set to have a government led by a mayor and two commissioners, all of whom have ties to SpaceX. Bobby Peden, a vice president at SpaceX, will serve as the first mayor, and their governance will involve issues ranging from planning to local taxes.
However, not everyone is on board with the city's creation. Some nearby inhabitants are raising alarms about the environmental impact of SpaceX's activities. The area has faced concerns over wildlife conservation, light pollution, and litter from the rocket launches. In a past incident, SpaceX faced a hefty fine for wastewater dumping.
Amid these worries, a bill is making its way through the Texas legislature that may give Starbase control over nearby traffic closures during launches, setting up a potential clash with local officials.
With Elon Musk shifting many of his operations to Texas for better regulations and political climate, he continues to reshape the landscape of business and urban life in this region, setting the stage for new challenges as Starbase develops.
Stay tuned as this story unfolds with SpaceX at its core!
Covering about 1.6 square miles, Starbase was mostly deserted until SpaceX stepped in back in 2012. The city is set to have a government led by a mayor and two commissioners, all of whom have ties to SpaceX. Bobby Peden, a vice president at SpaceX, will serve as the first mayor, and their governance will involve issues ranging from planning to local taxes.
However, not everyone is on board with the city's creation. Some nearby inhabitants are raising alarms about the environmental impact of SpaceX's activities. The area has faced concerns over wildlife conservation, light pollution, and litter from the rocket launches. In a past incident, SpaceX faced a hefty fine for wastewater dumping.
Amid these worries, a bill is making its way through the Texas legislature that may give Starbase control over nearby traffic closures during launches, setting up a potential clash with local officials.
With Elon Musk shifting many of his operations to Texas for better regulations and political climate, he continues to reshape the landscape of business and urban life in this region, setting the stage for new challenges as Starbase develops.
Stay tuned as this story unfolds with SpaceX at its core!
