I would have to engage in some "creative financing" to come up with the money, but I would indeed be willing to pay an annual fee to retain access to this resource. Heck, Steven's critiques alone, are worth the price of admission! I believe 35-40 dollars per year is reasonable.
It's not perfect, but it beats the heck out of every other alternative. As many others have already stated, there is NO other comparable artists' forum on the net.
I've been guilty also, of dropping by to read without logging on. In future, I will be diligent to make my presence known.