Long Beach residents urge council to discuss SpaceX contract amid concerns about Elon Musk's statements

At the April 8 meeting, two members of the public urged the Long Beach City Council to reconsider or publicly discuss the city’s contract with SpaceX because of concerns about company founder Elon Musk’s public statements and reported conduct.

Public speakers: Jennifer (identifies as a Long Beach resident and business owner and member of Feminist Uprising) asked the council to “consider having a public forum about SpaceX” and to “talk about it,” saying the city should consider whether doing business with Musk’s companies aligns with Long Beach values. She said, “How can we accept doing business with Elon Musk knowing what his position is on trans people, gay people, people of color?” (public comment at the meeting).

Laura Foy followed and also urged the council to “cancel the contract with SpaceX,” citing allegations she said have been made against Musk and arguing a municipal stance could influence business relationships.

Council response: Remarks during the meeting show councilmembers listened to public comment, but no council motion or staff directive regarding SpaceX was introduced during the meeting. The speakers asked for the council to add the topic to a future agenda or to hold a public forum; no formal action or vote occurred.

Why it matters: The comments reflect a segment of public concern about whether municipal contracts and economic relationships should consider company leadership conduct and public statements. The council did not take action at the meeting; members would need to place an item on a future agenda to start formal review or policy discussion.

Ending: No agenda item or staff report on SpaceX was scheduled during this meeting; speakers said they would return to ask the council to consider the matter again.