After running it for a while I have decided to drop it. The reason is a simple one. I just think a forum damages my brand. Reputation management is everything!

I want to demonstrate Manchester and my site in a positive way. From looking at other “geo/ city forums” I realised that people prefer talking about local issues – crime, politics, relationships and are frequently critical of the conduct of the municipal / state government. Frequently discussion is negative, or controversial. Forum members frequently fall out with one another, form cliques and indulge in a range of activities that you would not wish to associate yourself.

As has been said before, the role of forum moderator is time consuming. The success or failure of your forum will depend on the skills and enthusiasm of the person who is moderating. I believe only a fraction of forum members post with any frequency and even fewer would venture beyond the forum itself.

Of course, the worst thing is a forum that looks inactive – thats a reputation killer because it gives the totally wrong impression to visitors and potential advertisers.

I suggest a Burbank blog instead – you are in control and you can build a community of sorts, just like you have here.

Good luck

The forum was a good idea, as you said long term it will work out well. Just make sure it does not consume too much of your time.

[edit]
In your email, you mentioned their was a newsletter but I didn’t notice it offhand (which means your site visitors probably don’t either). Maybe a form for that at the top?
[/edit]

That’s true, but that’s why I need to help it start out and I have a couple others who will be helping with this, too.