I completely agree with this. I also agree that an increase of reputation is key. Having participated through more beta sites than just about anyone (Via Area51 badges), I can state for certain that after a time, you have a core group that is running the site, and it takes a while to build up to that core group. If the group exists, then it's frustrating that someone with relatively little knowledge can do relatively heavy moderator hitting.
I do like the idea of a few changes, perhaps a standard design, and possibly a custom color changes for the given site. This is optional, however. Just make sure to get rid of the word "beta" for certain!
Of course, I also recommend that this change be enacted slowly, no more than a site every week or two, so that the SE staff doesn't have too much to handle all at once. But I think this will really work.
