For at least a decade, the Stonelick Township Water Tower on the corner of SR 132 and SR 131 had lurked black and nasty among the trees. The tower was a local eyesore, encrusted with dark mold and algae, the words “STONELICK” barely readable due to the filth.
We are now in 2026 Primary Election season. Luiza McQueen is challenging incumbent Claire Corcoran for the Republican Commissioners Seat. In two Facebook Posts dated January 16, 2026, and February 23, 2026, McQueen pointed out Commissioner Corcoran lives on SR 132 not one mile from the Stonelick Water Tower. In fact, Commissioner Corcoran would undoubtably drive past the derelict Stonelick Tower each day she drives directly from home to Batavia. In her political Facebook posts, McQueen compared Corcoran’s attention to local appearances as a reflection of her performance as County Commissioner.
Suddenly, as first noticed on March 13, 2026, the long neglected Stonelick Water Tower was clean! What was the cause of the sudden attention to a long-ignored township blight?
We did some light research, and it is the responsibility of the utility company to keep the tower clean and maintained. However, the word “STONELICK” was apparent under the grime. Stonelick could have called the utility company years ago to have it cleaned.
During the Nov 2025 election, the Stonelick Trustees faced challengers on the ballot. They had run unopposed in past elections. Are the Stonelick Trustees making more of an effort than previously? Are they trying to clean up their act?
Was there a blistering phone call from Commissioner Corcoran? Perhaps to the utility company? Perhaps to a Stonelick Trustee? Was the Stonelick Tower cleaned because of McQueen? If so, what a shame that it takes a political dig to be the catalyst for needed maintenance.
Whatever the reason, the Stonelick Water Tower now gleams blonde and bright among the trees at the corner of SR131/SR132. One less eyesore in Clermont County.
Dirty water tower picture courtesy of Facebook.