What we should all understand is that running a fucking pool is not an arcane dark art and definitely should not be anybody's fucking privilege. It is for the benefit of all and the coin to have alternatives, so as to have lower pool fees, be able to compare the details etc etc.
As I said, the n00bs are about to run some pools. It will not be mandatory to use them. So, what's the big deal?
You obviously know nothing about pools and/or have never ran one. The server isn't going to pay for itself, you know. We are talking about a top of the line server that is being used exclusively for the Shinycoin pool. I am risking a lot, so ask yourself why no one else has stepped up to the game? Exactly that.
Talking about alternatives; the dev wants to try build his own pool, I have offered him tips (how to) and help. I don't mind alternate pools, just not retards running it. I'd rather have the dev run a pool than anyone else as he is invested into this coin and seems to be very capable of it.