this is right way - not just DEV - for relay admin op cost + app server or full services - depending case by case.
user will have pay-per-use in TIERED way or host facility peering with relays them selves.
For half the price of X you get infinitely more freedom and the warm and fuzzy feeling of supporting Nostr developers.
What else can you ask for?
If you’re a nostr:npub18m76awca3y37hkvuneavuw6pjj4525fw90necxmadrvjg0sdy6qsngq955 user, go ahead and subscribe to Damus Purple. 
Discussion
I agree. I pay for relays and now for my main client as well