2023 Candidates

Candidate information for persons listed on the 2023 general election ballot

Candidates in the order in which applications were submitted: Derek Mahnke, Matt Bucher, Ralph Simon

Derek Mahnke has been a Wells Branch community member since 2008 when he moved to the area from Grand Rapids Michigan. He holds a BS from Grand Valley State University in Political Science and a minor in Foreign Relations. Since moving to the area he’s been active in a number of community outreach organizations especially as it relates to fighting hunger. He’s an energetic volunteer in 2 neighborhood food pantries. Currently he sits on St. Andrews Presbyterian Church's Mission committee which oversees the church's anti-poverty missions. From June to November of 2022 Derek sat on the Library board for trustees after being appointed to the position.

Matt Bucher has served as Vice President of the Library Board since 2021. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Denver and began his career in New York, working in book publishing. He now works as a marketing manager at Charles Schwab. Matt also serves on the board of the Deerpark Middle School PTA, the McNeil High School Wrestling Booster Club, and the International David Foster Wallace Society. He and his wife Jordan have two sons, ages 13 and 16. They have lived in Wells Branch since 2006.

Ralph was born in Detroit, Michigan, but raised in the San Fernado Valley/Hollywood area of Los Angeles. He moved to Wells Branch in 1998. He was the first president of the Brattonwood HOA and is currently an active volunteer with the FOL and the WBNA. He has served on the board and as an officer of many professional, educational, social and fraternal organizations. His career was that of a buyer/ manager for many major retailers, an owner of a small chain of shoe stores and a Series 7 licensed financial advisor. He and his wife have been traveling extensively worldwide the last few years. He is an avid and accomplished duplicate and tournament bridge player. "I am happy and proud to be working on the next incarnation of our Wells Branch Community Library. I want to continue to help shape the future of this neighborhood gem."