BOONVILLE, Mo. — During the Cooper County Farm Bureau Annual meeting, Don Baragary, a Republican, announced his candidacy for the Missouri House District 48 seat currently held by Dave Muntzel, who is serving his final term due to term limits. The 48th District includes parts of Cooper, Howard, Pettis, Saline, Chariton, and Randolph Counties in central Missouri.
Baragary has lived in the district for 45 years and resides on the family farm in Cooper County with his wife Joy where they have a cattle grazing and background operation. Baragary, who is well known in central Missouri as an agriculture advocate, states, “My ag roots go back to my early years in 4-H. I strongly support 4-H and FFA and I know the leadership skills youth develop through 4-H and FFA make them great ag leaders in our communities.”
In addition to his agricultural upbringing, Don, along with his wife Joy, ran a successful construction business for more than 35 years. Baragary says, “They say that beside every great man is a greater woman and that has certainly been true in my case. I credit my business savvy to my parents, Janice and the late Barney Baragary, who taught me to Run It Like A Business at an early age. My dad always told me to treat people like you want to be treated and the rest will come easy.”
In recent years Baragary has served as Presiding Commissioner of Cooper County and is currently in his second term. He also serves on the Board of Directors for Unlimited Opportunities Inc., the Mid-Missouri Regional Planning Commission, the Mid-Missouri Public Housing Agency and the Boonslick Community Development Corporation. He is a member of the I-70 Task Force, the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association and Missouri Farm Bureau.
Don and Joy have two children, Chance and Whitney, and three grandsons. Baragary said, “The things I enjoy most are visiting with my many friends of all ages and listening to their interesting stories that include military service from WWII to today. Their sacrifices ensure the freedom we enjoy today and reaffirm my respect for them and our country and our flag. I also love to trail ride with family and friends. Nothing can refresh your mind like the view you get while looking between a horse’s ears.”
Regarding his candidacy, Baragary says “I am excited for the opportunity to represent the citizens of House District 48 in Jefferson City. My years as a self-employed businessman prepared me for my job as Cooper County’s Presiding Commissioner and the two combined have prepared me for the state legislature. I recognize that private businesses and local governments that include our small cities, schools, fire and ambulance districts, and other interests all need a voice at the Capitol. I will be honored to be that voice. One thing that stands out as the key to economic development in the region is the importance of our state transportation infrastructure.”
