grenv: your independant panel idea seems good on the surface but I think it would cause more problems than it is worth, I think the accusations would fly all over the place, just look at the animosity towards moderators, think how much that would increase if ratings are at stake, and what about the innocent person that just took a chance that someone would bid zero, some kind of proof or pattern and investigation would be required.
I think that the invitational solution is the best