The Digital Press

Starbase, Texas, the company town largely controlled by Elon Musk's SpaceX, is proposing a new zoning ordinance that could change how residents use their property. The town plans a public hearing on June 23 to discuss adopting a "Mixed Use District" zoning plan that blends residential, office, retail, and small-scale service uses.

Why it matters: The zoning changes could restrict current property uses, affecting residents and SpaceX's control over the area.

The big picture: Starbase was formed recently as a municipal corporation dominated by SpaceX employees, aiming for near-total control over its industrial and residential lands.

The stakes: Residents may lose existing usage rights of their properties under the new zoning, raising concerns about local autonomy and property rights.

Commenters say: Many express unease about corporate influence over local governance, while some see zoning as necessary for SpaceX's ambitious space launch plans.