Overview

• The incorporation of Starbase was approved with 173 votes in favor and 4 against, out of 283 eligible voters in Boca Chica Village.
• Bobby Peden, SpaceX vice president, was elected unopposed as the city's first mayor, alongside two commissioners.
• Starbase's Type C city status allows it to levy up to a 1.5% property tax and manage local planning, infrastructure, and land use over its 3.9 km² area.
• The Texas Legislature is reviewing a bill that could grant Starbase authority to close roads and restrict public access to beaches and parks during SpaceX launches.
• Environmental concerns persist, with SpaceX previously fined $150,000 in 2024 for wastewater discharge and criticism over wildlife and pollution impacts.