Williamson County joins Cedar Park to create Central Texas Spaceport Development Corporation

Williamson County commissioners voted unanimously Aug. 19 to create the Central Texas Spaceport Development Corporation in partnership with the city of Cedar Park and to approve the corporation’s bylaws.

The court approved the bylaw package and the interlocal arrangement required to form the nonprofit entity under state corporate law, and then appointed county representatives to the new seven-member board. The vote on the corporation and appointments was 5-0.

Why it matters: County officials said the corporation is intended to expand economic-development opportunities in the county’s aerospace and space-support sectors. County commissioners and economic-development staff described the move as creating a new tool to attract space-related businesses and jobs.

Commissioner Long, who led the item, said the idea originated in Cedar Park and that the corporation allows the county and city to pursue partnership opportunities allowed under state law. “I am really excited…this is really amazing opportunity,” Commissioner Long said on the record as she moved approval.

Officials noted Cedar Park already approved its side of the agreement and that the Wilco Economic Development Partnership had been involved in preparatory work. The court then confirmed four county appointees and acknowledged three Cedar Park appointees will serve on the seven-member board, including an at-large seat requiring specific space-sector expertise.

The court cited state law in discussion: the agenda referenced the Texas Nonprofit Corporation Act and provisions of the Texas Business Organizations Code and Local Government Code related to interlocal collaboration.

Next steps: With bylaws approved and board members named, the new corporation can begin formal organization. Commissioners said they expect staff and the city to return with implementation steps as the entity establishes governance and seeks project opportunities.