But if it encourages more off topic questions, wouldn't you consider that a cost?

Sure. Just as I would, in theory, consider helping someone who has fallen down not free. Idt isn't free; I would have to expend energy in such an endeavor. However, in my mind, the more we promote that the image that perlmonks is for perl only, the less relevant and friendly we will become. Moreover, moderation exists for a reason. If you feel that strongly on the subject, vote to delete. If enough others agree with you, it will be so.