Where is the center of the universe?

I was advising the OP.

I went to the store today, and thought I'd test the geared theory. I downshifted at every stop sign, dropped gears to spin more on the hills, clicked up on downhills.

Now I have a broken front Del:(

And my fingers hurt.
And I didn't get there faster.
No hot chicks were there to cheer me on:(
I didn't save any money on my insurance.
I have to pay $20 for a new front del.

More choice isn't always better. I vote for singlespeed for simplicity, ease of use, never have to tune your shifter cable, less to oil, less to go wrong. Your use is fairly limited for 1 mile radius so use the KISS formula.

Not to sound rude, but what do you mean by 'del'?

I like the part about saving on insurance.

Do you or will you have more than one bike?

I think a SS would make sense in your situation IF your situation doesn't change and you don't think you will want to ride farther or tougher terrain. Or if you have another geared bike that you can use for longer distances. If this will be your only bike, I think a 3 speed would make most sense. They are very reliable and can handle hills and make longer distances easier if you ever decide you want to do that.