Campus Security, Facing Vehicle Issues, Resorts to Rentals

By Devin Tapia | Marketing Manager

Over the past few months, the University of Lynchburg Office of Campus Safety and Security has faced ongoing challenges with official vehicles, forcing them to rely on rental cars to maintain patrols and provide essential services such as Safe Ride.

Initially, Campus Security used a Volkswagen Passat labeled with official decals. However, due to persistent mechanical issues, the vehicle was taken out of service, leaving Campus Security in search of alternatives. As a result, they turned to renting two Nissan vehicles to continue their duties. Financial constraints forced them to return one of the rentals, leaving them with a university-owned minivan.

According to Terry Eagle, Assistant Director of Security, the department is using the rental vehicles as a temporary solution. 

“We ended up with what we have out there now, which is a pool of vehicles temporarily until we can purchase new vehicles,” Eagle said. “Plans are in place to acquire Ford Mavericks in the next budget cycle, but securing the necessary funding remains uncertain.”

Financial hardships at the university play a major role in decisions made across campus. Dr. Gerald Prante, Associate Dean of the School of Professional Applied Sciences, who is involved in forecasting the institution’s revenue, explained that the university is working to address a significant budget deficit, requiring spending cuts across multiple departments. 

“Safety and security spent about almost a million dollars,” explained Prante. “Everyone is having to do more with less.”

Some students, like Claire Baker, a sophomore nursing major, believe that while the vehicles serve an important purpose, purchasing brand-new cars may not be the most responsible financial decision with the university cutting so many programs. 

“I think because it’s used for the intended purposes, it’s financially responsible. Now, I don’t think having new cars would be financially responsible unless it’s necessary,” Baker stated.

For further updates, visit the Security page on the University of Lynchburg’s website.