SpaceX's Starbase city is getting its own court | TechCrunch

TechCrunch

by Sean O'Kane

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

SpaceX’s Starbase city in Texas is taking another significant step toward becoming a self-sufficient community by seeking to establish its own municipal court. The proposed ordinance, submitted by Starbase’s city administrator during a recent meeting, would create a part-time judge, prosecutor, and court clerk. Mayor Tom O’Bryan will initially serve as the judge until a full-time appointee is selected for a two-year term. This move comes as Starbase continues to expand its municipal services, including forming its own police department and managing building permits and fire code inspections. The city’s push for greater autonomy stems from its growing population and the need for reliable public safety. With 580 residents, Starbase has experienced an increase in calls for law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services. The lack of dedicated coverage from the Cameron County Sheriff’s Office has raised concerns among residents and city leaders. Starbase’s remote location requires quick response times, especially given its proximity to SpaceX’s South Texas rocket factory and launch facility. The development highlights the challenges and opportunities faced by a rapidly growing community tied to a major tech company like SpaceX. While Starbase is still in the process of establishing its police department, the push for a municipal court underscores its commitment to building independent public safety infrastructure. This reflects both the unique demands of hosting high-profile operations like space launches and the broader trend of companies investing in self-sufficient communities. For readers interested in tech and innovation, Starbase’s evolution offers insights into how companies are shaping urban development and governance. By taking control of key municipal services, SpaceX is setting a precedent for future city-building efforts tied to technology-driven industries. The initiative also underscores the importance of public safety infrastructure as communities grow, particularly those centered around cutting-edge projects like space exploration.

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Originally published on TechCrunch on 2/19/2026