The only thing we've changed our official position on was ASIC resistance (since ASICs are an evolutionary step forward).
and YES. We are developing, but only one person reached out to us to help develop the next version of Earthcoin (Linki) and he is a good programmer but new to crypto, so he is learning as he goes. If you want to see dev happen faster, please feel free to make an introduction to some other experienced dev who is willing to put aside work on their own coin to work on Earthcoin. We would love that intro and have a bounty ready for them.
Also, what are you expected timelines? Doge is able to evolve quickly because they have a large community. If you feel like you can do a better job building out the community. DO IT. This is why I joined the Earthcoin team and why so many other have joined in the last few weeks.