Let me just speak as a member here (not as a moderator), and also as someone who's interested in writing.
First, thanks for the great summary, but please don't get discouraged.
Some possibilities (but this is YOUR project):
1) Possibly allow for an increased word length on working stories, which may open up new possibilities, maybe?
2) As you mention in #2, this seems to be a viable option.
I'm not certain what you mean in your second enumerated list: "[M]ay be tied up for years..."
Sorry, but what was the goal for the total word count on the project?
This is a worthwhile project. I can't imagine anyone not in favor of getting editing assistance/positive critical comments on a developing story. Everyone benefits.
Too, I think this is an important project here at Mobileread. (I can't speak for the other moderators here, but I have no hesitation in voicing my opinion as a member/writer here.)
Please keep working on this.
