The local activists seeking to take hold of the Mukai Farm and Garden won in court last week, when a judge ruled that they legally control the historic property.

“That’s the phrase we’ve been waiting for,” said Helen Meeker, a Friends of Mukai board member who said she was “euphoric” when she learned of the decision.

King County Superior Court Judge Monica Benton ruled on Thursday, April 2, that a group of Vashon residents did legally orchestrate their 2012 takeover of Island Landmarks, the nonprofit that owns the Mukai property. The decision leaves former Island Landmarks president and Texas resident Mary Matthews, who has been highly criticized during her time at the helm of the nonprofit, no longer affiliated with the nonprofit or the Mukai property.

“It’s a big win,” said Friends of Mukai President Lynn Greiner, who is also an attorney for the group.

Glenda Pearson, another board member, also said she was pleased but struck a more cautious tone, as it is possible Matthews’ group could appeal the decision.

“We’ve been kind of battered for years,” she said. “I’m almost afraid to believe it.”

The ruling could end a legal battle that began in 2012, when a group of islanders dissatisfied with Island Landmarks quietly became members of the nonprofit and held a meeting where they elected a new board and president. When Matthews and other former board members then refused to give up control of the nonprofit, the Vashon group sued.

Both sides of the case had been preparing for trial when they filed opposing motions for partial summary judgement, asking the judge to rule on the the primary issue, the nonprofit’s ownership, without a trial.

While Benton ruled in favor of the Vashon group, the case may still go to trial over requests in the lawsuit that Matthews hand over Island Landmarks’ financial records as well as some historical artifacts in her possession.

Matthews, reached by phone, declined to comment. However, an attorney representing her, J. Timothy Hobbs at the Seattle law firm K&L Gates, said he and his clients were disappointed with the ruling but “proceeding with the defense of the case.” He declined to say whether they planned to appeal.

Greiner said Friends of Mukai members will be meeting soon and will work with county officials to determine their next steps. Top priorities, she said, are assessing the condition of the house and making any urgent repairs. They will likely hold a public event as well.

“We’re hoping to get the public there soon,” she said.