Grand Portage Lodge & Casino security staff have a new high-visibility vehicle to use to make their rounds. The new security truck is a 2012 Toyota Tundra, outfitted with lights and radio and clearly marked as a security vehicle. Some of the folks watching over the casino and other enterprises are (L-R) Officer Al MacDonald, Casino Manager Brian Mayotte, Security Chief Jack Freeman, Officer Tim Dalin.
People stopping late at night at the Grand Portage Trading Post or leaving the Grand Portage Casino in the wee hours of the morning will feel a little bit safer now, thanks to a new security vehicle patrolling the premises. The 2012 Toyota Tundra is emblazoned with “Security” on both sides and sports emergency lights on top.
Chief of Security at Grand Portage Lodge & Casino Jack Freeman explained that a large part of security at any facility is visibility. “That’s a deterrent, just being aware that security is there,” he said.
For that reason, when it came time to replace the former security vehicle—an unmarked pickup truck—Freeman asked for authorization to purchase something more noticeable. He expressed appreciation to the Grand Portage Tribal Council for its commitment to community safety.
Freeman also said thank you to the “local vendor,” Benny’s Collision Center, that installed the lights, radio and decals. “We’re very proud of the truck,” said Freeman.
Casino Manager Brian Mayotte said he is pleased to see something “high-profile” for public safety. “When people come here, we want them to have a good time and we want them to know there is always someone available to help them if need be,” said Mayotte.
“We’re proud of our security staff,” said Mayotte.
Mayotte, too, expressed his thanks to the Tribal Council for its support of the enterprises. He said he looks at the new truck as a symbol of that ongoing support.
The vehicle will patrol Grand Portage community enterprises—the lodge and casino parking lot, the Trading Post, the carwash, and the campground and marina.
As before, the security vehicle will still be on hand to help out in minor emergencies, such as a car that won’t start or keys accidentally locked inside. It will just be a lot more obvious to people in distress that the person pulling up to assist is a member of Grand Portage security.
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