In less than a year, SpaceX’s Texas company town, Starbase, has its own volunteer fire department and plans to establish a police department. Now, it aims to create its own court.
Starbase’s city administrator presented a ordinance proposal at a city commission meeting to establish a municipal court with a part-time judge, prosecutor, and court clerk. The mayor will temporarily serve as judge until a two-year appointment is made. A candidate may be ready by next month’s meeting.
Creating a court in Starbase, which houses approximately 580 residents near SpaceX’s facilities, is part of its efforts to establish its own municipal services.
Aside from the volunteer fire department, Starbase now handles building permits and fire code inspections. A plan to hire county deputies for patrolling was scrapped, leading to the creation of the Starbase Police Department. Currently, they still use Cameron County jail facilities.
The police department’s formation is expected to take six months. During the recent meeting, an application to the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement required for establishing the force was reviewed, revealing details about the new department’s plans.
The application highlighted an increase in service calls due to population growth: 420 law enforcement, 180 fire, and 140 EMS calls in 2025. Additionally, 353 crashes occurred, with over 7,000 vehicles traversing Highway 4 daily.
Due to the sheriff’s inability to ensure “dedicated law enforcement coverage,” Starbase’s remote location necessitates prompt response times. These concerns are echoed by residents and city officials.
Starbase’s advanced technology, coastal charm, high incomes, rising property values, and anticipated tourist influx from SpaceX launches demand strong municipal services. The city emphasizes the importance of maintaining spaceflight operation integrity within its jurisdiction.