As gas prices climb, college looks for cuts

College students may see campus security patrolling campus on bicycles this summer, if gas prices continue to climb.
Gas may cost $5 a gallon by Memorial Day if former president of Shell Oil, John Hofmeister is to be believed. The former CEO has made national headlines claiming drivers could see an increase in gas prices due to emerging markets in Asia and the crackdown on offshore drilling placed by the Obama administration.
For Hillsdale College, the price jump may mean increased charges for traveling, security, maintenance and off-campus studying.
Tony Swinehart, associate professor of biology and organizer of Hillsdale's summer marine biology program, said an increase in gas prices wouldn't affect this summer's marine biology participants, though it may affect future trips.
"If it were a problem, we may have to cut some activities," Swinehart said. "At this point, we can't raise the price we're charging our students."
He said a trip typically costs about $600 in gas per van, but added that wouldn't be an issue this year due to the economy.
"Only nine people signed up," Swinehart said. "This is the first year ever we haven't had a maximum enrollment."
Still, Swinehart said gas isn't cheap, especially on boats. He said the marine biology program typically takes seven or eight trips on a boat during the summer, burning 12 gallons a trip totaling $420 a summer.
"My interest is keeping costs low so students can participate in this great summer program," he said. "You can't teach a course like this on campus."
Shuttle services, too, will be affected. Scott Campbell, transportation coordinator, said he's only seen an increase to shuttle services because of gas prices once before. He said the formula is pretty simple, "If the cost [of gas] shoots up, we'll adjust the mileage costs accordingly."
Not true for the Hillsdale College security crew, who continue to patrol the campus and gun range during the summer.
Director of Campus Security Director Mike Wertz said if gas prices go up, they'll have to cut down on patrols. He said foot and bike patrols may increase as a consequence.
Wertz said he currently has $12,000 to $13,000 set aside for fleet services, most of which goes towards gas.
He said security usually keeps the same patrol routine during the summer, when the college hosts classes, camps and hostels.
"We're still going to average about 25 miles a shift," Wertz said. "But with constant stop and go, your mileage goes to snot."
He said security will still be on call when it's needed, but instead of actively patrolling around campus, security will be found in Fowler Maintenance Building responding to call from there.
"Hopefully, it doesn't get there," Wertz said. "Hopefully it's all just hype."