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Elon Musk wants to revolutionize the idea of cities by creating his own community in Texas. With the city government and public services under his control, Starbase is an ambition that mixes business power, innovation and controversy. But will this futuristic vision be accepted by the community and regulators? Find out more about this intriguing story!
Imagine a place where all political and administrative decisions are under the influence of one of the most powerful men in the world.
Elon Musk, the billionaire behind the Tesla and SpaceX, took another bold step in its innovation journey: building its own city in the United States.
But what motivates this ambition to create a municipality almost entirely under its control? This is a story full of curiosities and controversies.
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According to the newspaper New York Times, the plans for the call Starbase, as Musk wants to name it, are becoming increasingly real.
Located in Boca Chica, a coastal region in southern Texas, this private community is already home to about 500 people, including SpaceX employees and their families.
Now, with a petition submitted to Cameron County, the billionaire seeks to transform the region into an official city, with its own mayor, managers and public services.
Musk's dream: an exclusive city
The idea of creating a corporate-owned city isn't entirely new, but Musk's case is a bit peculiar.
In Boca Chica, most of the homes are already owned by SpaceX, and many residents live in temporary accommodations, such as trailers.
If the merger is approved, Starbase will have administrative obligations, such as road maintenance and possibly the creation of its own police department.
According to the petition presented, Gunnar Milburn, SpaceX's security manager, is the name considered to be the city's first mayor.
A letter signed by Kathryn Lueders, the company's manager for Starbase, noted that the remote location requires basic civilian functions that are currently provided by the company.
“The incorporation would bring more appropriate management to the area,” stated Lueders.
Controversies and legal challenges
Musk's project is not without its opposition. Local environmental groups have warned of the ecological impacts of large-scale rocket launches in coastal areas.
Additionally, some residents have complained about restrictions imposed by SpaceX, such as road closures and limitations on access to beaches.
In an interview with New York TimesCameron County Judge Eddie Treviño Jr. said his legal team is reviewing the request to see if it meets legal requirements.
“Initially I thought they just wanted to change the name of the area for postal delivery purposes, but it seems there is something bigger at play,” the magistrate said.
The expectation is that the decision on the election will take place in 2025.
Benefits and immunities
If officially incorporated, Starbase could benefit from state and federal subsidies, as well as some immunity from lawsuits.
The city would also have autonomy to implement water supply systems and other essential services.
Historically, Texas has had few examples of company towns. One such example is Todd Mission, founded by George Coulam to host the Texas Renaissance Festival.
However, experts point out that Musk's initiative is unique because it involves a high-tech company with global proportions.
Local community expectations
The community of Boca Chica is experiencing a mix of anticipation and apprehension. Cayetana Polanco, the wife of a SpaceX employee, expressed enthusiasm about the possible creation of the city.
“If all goes well, my baby could be the first born on Starbase. That would be epic!” he said.
Richard Cardile, Operations Manager at SpaceX, reinforced that the company owns the majority of properties in the area.
According to him, the company has detailed records of all residents, which could facilitate the transition to a formal municipality.
What does the future hold for Starbase?
With Elon Musk's influence and the support of his employees, Starbase has a good chance of becoming a reality.
However, the impacts of this initiative will be widely debated, both by the local community and by experts.
Do you think Elon Musk will be one step closer to dominating the US with the creation of Starbase? Share your opinion in the comments!
That’s absolutely right. And you can even create urban solutions that can be followed by other cities around the world…
And for those who criticize, know that here in Brazil there is a minister and an ex-convict who think they own Brazil...