I can't speak to the tax or career implications, but if those check out then I'd do it and see about working the status renewal on your own dime. I'm maintaining gold at about $1,500-1,800 all out of my own pocket on tickets (with occasional help from bump vouchers and $300 fare credits from my credit card's points program). Still, IMO it's only worth it if you can make the mileage-earning trips worthwhile and useful, so I don't go for "pure" MRs. OTOH, if you can put together some 3-day weekends or longer blocs then it could work. I especially like short dead-of-winter trips to places like AMS to run up the miles if the fare drops low enough. LAS (from ATL) also can be good, as it's car-optional and lodging deals abound.

I think you could maintain status affordably on your own dime and have lots left over.