Protest that Bokachika beach should not be closed
According to the wishes of billionaire Elon Musk, a new city has been created in the US state of Texas, 'Starbase.' Musk is excited after the majority passed the proposal to establish Starbase as an official city in the recently concluded vote.
However, some tribal communities have expressed concern that the Bokachi beach and wildlife reserve will be closed to the general public after it comes under the control of Musk.
The vote on the proposal to make Starbase a city had a total of 212 votes in favor and six against, according to results posted online by the Cameron County Elections Department. Most of the voters who live there are employees of Musk's company SpaceX and their family members, according to US media.
Musk posted on his social media platform 'X' and expressed his happiness that Starbase is now a real city. The city is where SpaceX's major spacecraft-related equipment and projects are being prepared. According to the contract with the US Department of Defense and the US Space Center NASA, SpaceX is preparing the equipment and project with the goal of sending humans to the moon and reaching Mars in the future.
Musk first announced the concept of Starbase in 2021. It was almost certain to become a new town because most of its 283 voters were SpaceX workers. Concerns have been expressed that after Musk's company settled the city, his control will increase. It is suspected that Musk could close the South Texas beaches and Boca Chica State Park, which are especially popular for space shuttle launches, to others.
SpaceX is seeking permission from federal agencies to increase the number of annual launches from 5 to 25 from South Texas. This Texas city on the border with Mexico covers an area of about 1.5 square miles (3.9 square kilometers). SpaceX has not clarified or commented on why the 'company city' was needed.
However, in a letter sent to local authorities in 2024, Starbase General Manager Catherine Lueders mentioned the need to develop Starbase as a community. SpaceX officials said giving the city special rights to close the beach would simplify the launch process. Currently, local roads and Bocachica State Park will be closed during rocket launches, engine testing and moving equipment.
Experts are of the opinion that the right to close the beach should be vested in the county government. Cameron County Judge Eddie Trevino Jr. said SpaceX was operating smoothly and no changes were necessary. The South Texas Environmental Justice Network, which has been raising voices against urban development and ensuring access to the beach, has recently protested.
