I hear you all on all points made. Can't agree more.
I myself have not contributed much either. I have however spent hours reading and educating so i could contribute. However, life being crappy as it can be and having my most stressful job the past 2.5 years I have done really nothing with the technology, even coming to this site, and unfortunately have had no money. That I hope will change now.
Here is my take on things.
Modifying cars has exploded. Too many people think they can but really can't for many reasons. These days people are lazy and want others to do the work for them. All they care about is making their car cool and getting laid because of it.
I see making anything require payment you will see a flood of "I paid for membership I want answers!". I personally don't want to see that. I think a point system could work out like experts-exchange does. There could be a totally free and "free for all" section, then a more regulated by point system, and I believe a valued member section is in order.
So basically there is an area people can run wild. Then you got a regulated section based on points. Then the valued member is obviously those who contribute correctly, obey the rules, ask educated questions, answer correctly and donate either money, services, or development. i do agree a developer only section and to add to that have a question area for development for users to get help.
Moderation is necessary as those of you are aware of. It is sad but it is highly needed. Warn those with demands. Delete the stupid questions and tell them to read. I think repeated posts with the same question should be combined, I hate finding a question and see several posts saying answer here. Most of all put it on the user to do it right. Meaning, if they post a question say about chrome in the engine troubleshooting section just delete it and warn them. Too many warnings and abuse is ban. Add moderators, as long as a change history is kept with the appropriate structure you could just revert all changes made by said user back to said date. That is if someone given power becomes a dick.
People with respect will remain. Those without it don't even deserve to read this site honestly. It is a long haul but I find it worth it. This place has put life and drive in my hobby I love. And hopefully will continue to do so.
Now, anyone in the 636 area know of a good paying, well structured, well managed IT company to work for? My donations will follow...