Discussions Ongoing for Benka Lake Access

Attorneys from the State of Alaska responded to proposed solutions for public access at Benka Lake in Talkeetna. In this last correspondence, the State says the solutions proposed by the Brunzes, private landowners fighting to close the boat ramp and public access, are unworkable.

Public access on Lakeview Street has been in place since 1965, before the land around Benka Lake was subdivided and sold. Two parcels of land on either side of the access are now owned by the Brunzes.

The Brunzes erected a fence in August of 2022. Their claim to justify the fence: their property extends across Lakeview Street. Phillip Weidner, the Brunzes’ attorney, says the State is merely claiming a right-of-way and not ownership of the land. 

The fence led to the formation of Friends of Benka Lake and their current lawsuit to determine ownership of the boat launch access. 

In May of this year, a judge ordered the Brunzes in a temporary injunction to return the boat launch to its prior state before the fence was erected. They opened the fence to 14 feet, which did not allow for larger vehicles towing boats to adequately maneuver. In late July, the Judge again ordered the Brunzes to return the boat launch to its original state. They widened it to 20 feet, which is where it currently stands. 

Weidner asked for a 90-day extension to attempt to find a solution for everyone. He says he has been engaged with the State of Alaska trying to reach an appropriate settlement in the best interest of all parties. But he does not want to comment at this time on the state of the settlement discussions.

At the heart of the State’s response following Weidner’s latest correspondence, are two easements proposed by the Brunzes for the boat ramp. One would be a recreational access and the other for the lakeside property owners. But the Brunzes demand that if an alternative public access along a section line is developed, the two access easements at Lakeview Street would immediately cease.

To grant those easements, the State says they would have to officially dispose of that interest, which would mean a public vacation process. The attorneys reiterate in their correspondence that the STATE built the road, cul-de-sac, and boat ramp in 1965 and dedicated them for public use. 

The State’s correspondence also notes the Brunzes’ suggestions did not account for Fire Department access, fish stocking, and other non-recreational, non-lakeside owner users.

To date, there is no settlement agreement. The case is expected to go to court in March 2026.