I wonder if there would be enough people locally who want to moderate? That’s the biggest issue imo, along with it being taken over by concerns about schools and/or gross gossip.

I believe Topix was completely anonymous and unmoderated, and it was a train wreck. As a citizen of my town I was embarrassed that it existed. I remember specifically that any time a local principal made any changes at her school vile comments and threats would be posted about her. It was a major concern in her life until the whole site was taken down.

How to keep it from becoming disgusting like Topix? Vile things were said on those forums.