Firstly, I have little idea what is going on, I've just sat down at my computer and need some time to digest what is happening. However, I'd like to extend my thanks to the "old" mods that are leaving. Good job, guys, and thank you.
Now. I agree that a poll is a bad idea. It would be too public. I work online for employers I have never met. Once in a while they ask their employess for feedback via a survey they lay out on www.surveymonkey.com They have multiple choice questions, and spaces for comments in a private manner. Maybe a survey of this kind would be helpful? You would not have to read absolutely every single comment and ansewer, but might be able to guage the opinion of the forum as a whole by posting one of these surveys? Just a thought.