A screen grab of the Dec. 7 Mason City Board of Education meeting when Rich Patras shared his Energy Conservation Program Board Update. Gunnar Davis
Rich Patras, the energy manager for the Mason City Community School District, says he has saved the district over $5 million during his 20 years in the position.
$5,401,045 to be exact.
Patras is passionate about his job within the district. Some nights he will swing by the school buildings just to check and see if there are lights on. If so, heâll go in and shut them off.
During the winter break, when teachers and other staff are off, thatâs when heâs the most active within the school buildings.