If its not already something doable, looking at adding customizable settings for people to customize their server to their liking.
For example:
Allow servers to have slower run speeds for those who do not like the updated one.
An option to set cosmetics to default.
And other options that the community could be split on.
I believe this could be a good way to allow the community to have options both in gameplay and aesthetics. And this could also properly how many people enjoy playing with certain settings.
If very little people played slow run speed servers, that could indicate further that people enjoy the run speed increase, despite the outcry. Although in turn, if MORE people played slower run speed, it would show the opposite.
Just an idea, and also a midway between allowing mods, which would be a welcome addition.