Hearing for Benka Lake Fence May 23

A judge will decide on May 23rd whether the fence blocking Benka Lake public access will be removed.

The Brunzes own the property on both sides of the public access at the end of Lakeview Street. They argue their property lines include that part of the road. State documents indicate that Lakeview Street was built to provide public access to the lake. 

The Friends of Benka Lake Attorney Mike Kramer says the hearing will focus on the preliminary injunction to order the Brunzes to remove the fence. Whether or not it is granted, the case will go on.

Several Benka Lake property owners and Talkeetna residents will testify at the hearing. Kramer says they hope the fence will be taken down before summer so residents can enjoy the lake this season. 

The number of parties involved in the case has made choosing a trial date challenging, but Kramer says they’re pushing for an early trial, if possible. This first step might restore temporary public access to the lake while a trial date is set.

The preliminary injunction hearing will be held at the Palmer Courthouse on May 23rd from 1 to 4 pm.