Hey Shadow,
I couldn't agree with you more, supplying extensive direction to those who need it, as well as offering elbow room to those requesting the chance to demonstrate thier ability to create unique content, either way requires a solid design document to avoid content creation that becomes un-usable. I will be happy to read your design document templates as a guide, though I am well educated on the requirements for this area, the pursuit of knowledge never get's old for me. I have done extensive research in many areas of game development, it sounds that you have as well. I spend on average, seven nights a week and most weekend days learning and practicing what I already know, and what I need to learn. I will not be the one to quit if that is your concern, as long as the project is handled professionally there should not be too many others as well.
I am very capable of handling the story line and tailoring it to the design document, using the perspective of both the programmer and the artist as a guide from my knowledge in both areas. I have extensive project management experience, as that is my position in the company I work for during the day, that is something we have in common so we may be on the same wave length . As far as starting with a small team, I would support that decision untill we end up with a format that demands expansion. This would be glaringly obvious to everyone when it presents itself.
This is a "work for free" effort as you have commented, untill we have something worth buying, whether that is a game, or services provided is something we can use as a goal to help further motivate the group effort. There are many possibilities once the obstacles of filling the minimal positions, and coordinating the workflow is successfully achieved.
Above all else I want to do this because it is what I enjoy doing in my spare time and would love to one day make it full time.

PM me when you get the chance, I am east coast so keep that in mind.

CHEERS!