Just some food for thought:
Is there any way we could implement a plugin or module that makes so that when someone posts a thread in a specified section that only the OP and the mods/admins can see it? I think that would be a lot more effective than a general thread for people to discuss infractions or warnings. That way, a discussion about their issue can be had without third parties basically barging in. I don't know if Xenforo would have something like that, but I'm pretty sure IPB might.
I'm sure it's possible. However the current infractions thread was made in the first place because the mods were ignoring and brushing under the rug any infraction complaints that were taken privately. Usually not even bothering to respond. Or if they do, all they ever said was "our decision stands" and then that was that. No matter how blatantly unfair it was. No matter how far in the wrong the mod was. They simply saw anyone who questioned them as
The Enemy. The public venue added a degree of transparency that forced the issues to be addressed. Abusive infractions were common back then, but it changed after that. The effect was immediate. As soon as the thread was established, the rate of abusive infractions and warnings plummeted to near zero. Just being aware that they could be held publicly accountable for abusing their powers cautioned mods against infracting when it wasn't absolutely necessary. That never would have happened in a totally private setting. We couldn't have gotten to our better environment today without that openness. Not only are infractions handed out much more carefully, but actually the overall environment is much better because we're focused on resolving problems instead of pure punishment now. If we revert to an entirely private format, it'll inevitably roll back to the old practice of simply ignoring all complaints and never doing anything about it. Even the current mods are capable of that. It's a natural tendency. Openness and transparency is important for everyone to maintain their objectivity.