HuBBa runs the server. snYpir (an Aussie currently on holiday in France) is the lead Admin and runs the front end. There are a couple of dozen other volunteers who help out in various ways. We're always looking for more people, particularly ones who actually do stuff once they are on the staff. There is a staff listing
here.The site was created a couple of years ago by Tigershark and some other people. We're entirely independent and we have a very good relationship with BIS.
What Artak said is right, as far as I know. The problem with bandwidth is that this such a popular site we are on the cusp of being commercial-sized, and to get hosting for that is MUCH more expensive and we wouldn't be able to afford it without doing something unacceptable like charging people or having advertising.