To be honest, until i saw the API side of Google Maps i was under the assumption that Google is doing great service with Google Maps. Even now Google Maps gives the accurate result thanks to all the contributors.
I think you are saying the same thing? Without the API it sounds like a great community service that is kept accurate by its users. But the paid-for (and pricey?) API that profits from this is what gives a bit of a sour taste to the 'community' feeling.