Marc,
Although pay referrals sounds like a good idea, I wouldn't. Regardless of how much this site doesn't cost you now, give it time. I remember the days when RCO was lightening fast as well. Heck, I remember when FL was just a hang out for RCO rejects, now I go there too, kind of like an ex-pat...
Now, fortunes have changed and roles reversed and I even saw a post on FL about speed problems there.....
Hang on to your pennies, they'll come in handy.
As for how to get uses to come here, just hang in there, they'll come.