RE: Wars over engine starting benches.
We have 3 starting stands and a separate row of picnic tables for working on planes and general socializing. Our club is big and it's rare that there are any conflicts. The stands/benches are for starting only so people may leave a starter there but nothing else. And we store our planes on the ground when not flying them so people can sit at the tables. The club is fairly big and the arrangement works well.