i would return on the gold. It is ok to use it during the game, it is part of the game. but i think these events should be equal. so no gold using, gold should be restricted. For example, the spirit of the Olympic games is ruined. everyone should be equal during those 2 weeks, it is only who is better, not who is richer... at least this is my opinion, and to be honest i'm glad that i see a lot players thinking the same.
Let this game be fair. this became the game of the rich, not the strategic one. the whole gaming spirit is almost lost.
i would allow gold only for admin, marchant, priest, commander and captain. reducing the time of the production, prolonging spells like coto and pop growth... NO!!!! this is strategic game, and game that requires planing... not just spending.
edit: lets just try this way for a 2 months, and all gold spenders and players that are not planing will see the difference of smart using the units.