We, the undersigned residents and stakeholders of Pocono Township, respectfully submit this petition out of a shared concern for the integrity, unity, and effective governance of our community.

Pocono Township is a First-Class Township with a long-standing, close-knit population and a unique responsibility to balance the needs of its permanent residents with the seasonal influx of tens of thousands of visitors each year. This balance requires thoughtful leadership, measured judgment, respect for community culture, and a commitment to fostering trust among residents, volunteers, and public servants.

Pocono Township’s identity as a small, close-knit community is not a weakness to be modernized away, but a defining strength that attracts visitors in the first place. Beyond our resorts, skiing, and seasonal amenities, many tourists are drawn to the character, history, and hometown culture of this township—qualities shaped and preserved by the residents who live and serve here year-round. There is growing concern among residents that efforts to reshape Pocono Township to reflect transient preferences or outside social frameworks risk eroding the very qualities that make this community distinctive and welcoming. Responsible leadership requires preserving that balance, not sacrificing local identity in the name of adaptation.

Since the recent election and installation of Commissioner Charles Keppler, a pattern of conduct has emerged that raises serious concerns regarding temperament, preparedness for public office, and respect for the community he was elected to serve. Within a short period of time, public statements and actions attributed to Commissioner Keppler have resulted in the alienation of residents, the disparagement of community members, and the characterization of individuals and the broader community in ways that have caused division rather than unity.

While political disagreement and robust debate are natural and healthy elements of local government, the role of a township commissioner demands restraint, accuracy, and an understanding of the profound impact words and actions carry—particularly in a small, interconnected community such as ours.

This petition is not rooted in personal animus, political ideology, or opposition to change. Rather, it reflects a collective concern that the current conduct and approach demonstrated by Commissioner Keppler are incompatible with the standards of leadership, respect, and community stewardship expected of an elected official in Pocono Township.  A recent example of this poor judgment was his decision to open carry a firearm to the 1/20/26 board of commissioners meeting.  The 1st and 2nd amendment are very important and should not be questioned.  However, given the fact that Mr. Keppler chose to do so even though he holds a concealed carry permit is somewhat alarming and viewed as toxic by many who now feel uncomfortable in such an environment.  He simply could have kept it concealed if he felt the need to do so without the public statement, he made by wearing it openly.  That example of poor judgment is one of many.

Some time has passed since the first meeting on 1/5/2026 that was 6 hours long resulting in a delayed police budget followed by another instance of poor judgment at the end of the meeting about racism, ultimately accusing the township of prejudice towards people of color.  This happened even though he was advised by many township officials to address his concerns in a different, more thoughtful manner.

Accordingly, we respectfully request that Commissioner Charles Kepler give serious consideration to voluntarily stepping down from his position as Township Commissioner in the best interest of Pocono Township and its residents.

In the event that Commissioner Keppler chooses not to do so, this petition should also serve as a formal notice of concern from the community he was elected to represent. The undersigned expect an immediate and demonstrable change in conduct, including a commitment to respectful engagement, measured public discourse, and a deeper understanding of the community’s history, culture, and expectations of public service.

Continued actions or statements that undermine public trust, divide residents, or disparage members of this community will not be viewed as isolated incidents, but as part of a broader pattern incompatible with the responsibilities of township governance. Residents reserve the right to pursue all lawful and appropriate remedies available to them should such conduct persist.