Welcome Vince.
You're going to be hard pressed to find a new commuter bike in the sub $300 price range. If you know you're size, craigslist is a great place to find a deal. Sounds like you may be looking for a flat bar road bike - like the one shown below. Unfortunately it retails for ~$550 and it's an entry level commuter. Lots of folks around here ride bikes like this.
Have you asked the folks in the Commuting forum for suggestions?
Good luck.
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The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. - Psalm 103:8
I am a cyclist. I am not the fastest or the fittest. But I will get to where I'm going with a smile on my face.