Scotty, sad to see it's come to this but applaud your leadership in trying to find a workable solution to the current issues.
I don't often post but read often.
I would like to see new users earn their posting rights. Initially they could be restricted to one post per day until a period of time passes to gain full write access. The probationary period could also be used to control users who fall foul of a new moderation points system. like yellow cards, you accumulate points until eventually you are put on restrictive posting permissions.
I would also like to see moderators explain themselves less. If a post is removed or edited then the user should assume that the post was deemed unacceptable and should re-read the rules of the message board or contact the webmaster for clarification. Mods should not get into it online with users. This would go a long way to relieving some of the pressure on the moderators. Moderators should also have the option of being anonymous. In many ways having anonymous moderators should remove personalization of dispute.
Well I'm beginning to foam at the mouth so I better get out and ride the bike. Good night and good luck!