Rick , IMHO, a chat room is not a bad idea. The chat room on soak.net has had mixed success. Doesn't get much use unless users specify a specific time and purpose to chat. We did utilize it heavily for a while when we were discussing the possibilities of establishing a Hot Springs conservancy.
If its easily feasible without requiring you to do a lot of setup work, it might work out. You are obviously well versed in HTML and web design, so go for it!!!!