[...] I have come around to the idea that we need to make downvotes a regular and accepted part of the platform, if we want to be able to combat abuse and effectively distribute rewards.
I'm really glad for this post, and happy you've come fully to the side of freedom.
It's interesting to note that the issue has be exaserbated primarily by Condenser which by a very foolish choice was decided to use the term "flag". As you know, you will not find this term in the steemd source with respect to voting. You will also not find up vote. There is just a vote, with positive, zero or negative weight.
I have long held the position that we need to move away from flags as a concept and return to a sensible down vote concept. So optional point 2 for me is essential.
I also think the community group is a good idea, it's something that is being done here and there, but more visibility from witnesses would be good on this. Steemit Inc. needs to take a position and officially support people like @patrice too.
I'm not sure about separate voting pools but something like, if properly worked out, would be good because I am always hearing about the opportunity cost of flags just being too much and that it ruins the incentives around them. I tend to agree. Let's trash out this particular point more.