Cool, welcome to permies. It's a great place.
I used to be involved in an intentional community.
20 some people lived in a huge house, I had a key. I was a food member, so when the drama got too much, I got to go home -- very nice.
After listening to Pual's podcast, I agree that most of the "issues" arose over food -- I hadn't ever assessed why it got so whacky.
My favorite story was a neighboring co-op (all in the area are clothing optional), had a 6 month debate on whether or not utilizing the clothing optional portion of the community was a wise choice while sitting on the counter tops in the kitchen --seriously?
Butt-naked on the counter tops?! No.
Consensus at it's worst!
Good luck on your search --
should be fun.