Last year I wrote a free ebook on running a social network using the Ning platform that I updated at the beginning of January. You can download it here
http://www.howtobooklets.net/freebooklets/ningology2010.pdf
It focuses on developing a social network using the Ning platform and walks you through how I managed mine at the time of set up and keeping it active.
With the popularity of local search increasing (local people searching for local products/services) there is real merit in running a local social network that focuses in on your local town or community. I know as a result of my network Dominican Diaspora a few villages started their own network. It can be a great way to bring local mothers together or local businesses. At least during the winter months when it is snowing like today you can all conduct business online and in the winter meet up and get to know each other face to face.
I know it is the world WIDE web and being local may seem limiting but for me it is no different than focusing in on a niche rather than trying to cast your net too wide. Niche marketing works and local social networks can too. Think about it for a second, how much would your local electrician, your local cab service and your local restaurant pay to advertise on a social network filled with local people?
Just a thought 
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