The *first* instance to be asked about such thing are editors, not readers. I mean, the first question is "Do *we* want it?". Readers opinion could be one of the arguments in discussion; likely one of the most important ones; but decision should be on editors. And Board should act in opposition to editors just if there is serious threat for the project existence. However, nobody gave any reason in favor of avoiding editors' will in favor of Board's decision. Nothing rational, just personal wishes of a couple of people. And, again, if those wishes could pass without a lot of drama, I would be fine with it. However, that's not the case.
As always; I disagree with this view in the strongest possible way :)
Readers should always be our primary focus, and their needs should drive everything we do - from editing/writing through to policy and technical changes. They are our life blood and our reason for existing.
Just saying :)
Tom