I don't know if you need a new bike, but you need to commute on a bike you love (or at least like), otherwise you'll start dreading it or just not do it anymore. For me both a pannier and an upright position are absolute nonos for commuting, not to mention rubbing brakes. I commute on a flat-bar mtb that is significantly heavier than my road bike, but it's efficient on climbs and I can get way down out of the wind.

I would bring the bike into the foyer, out of the elements, and lock the wheel to the frame. And preferably get on friendly terms with the guards.