I think OMNI was functional enough before and I don't see how or why much would haved changed from before. If personal name-calling/personal attacks are dealt with, the rest will sort itself out naturally. I think the thread the above poster referred to here has some good suggestions.

Perhaps an OMNI sub-forum for politics -- including where religion and other things cross into the (quasi-)political realm -- that was patrolled for personal attacks would help address any outstanding concerns and let the lively discussions continue with a bit more substance and some flare (from time to time)?