Easiest thing would be to set up phpBB or similar forum software, then recruit a few neighbors to moderate.
There is no point in applying more technology -- all the value will come from the users (if you can get them).
There is no point in applying more technology -- all the value will come from the users (if you can get them).
Here is a screenshot of the categories that were created for us: http://client.palmsdevelopment.com/frontporch.png
I would also look at Vanilla forums as an alternative to phpBB: http://vanillaforums.org/
Hope this helps!
1. choose a canned forum package,
2. install and configure it,
3. find some moderators; show them how to admin the site and make backups
I've never used phpBB so cannot recommend it.
Edit: maybe have a look at [mwForum](http://www.mwforum.org/).