Elon Musk's efforts to maintain secrecy regarding a dispute with neighbors over a fence and gate at his Texas mansion were thwarted. His team lobbied West Lake Hills officials to keep details of the property and security operations private.
Musk's representatives argued that his work with the Trump administration warranted exemption from public access laws. They sought to make a public meeting private, citing his status as a federal employee and the presence of security personnel, including federal agents.
The dispute centers around a 16-foot-high fence and metal gate with a camera installed without proper permits, violating six municipal ordinances. Neighbors complained about the structures and increased traffic.
The city attorney rejected the request for a closed meeting. Musk's appeal to keep the fence and gate was denied by the Zoning and Planning Commission. The case is pending a City Council vote, though it's been postponed.
Despite attempts to keep it private, the details were revealed through emails obtained by The New York Times via public records requests. Musk and his team did not respond to requests for comment. The mansion, located in a cul-de-sac, is one of three Musk purchased for his children and their mothers.