To play Devil's Advocate for a second, I agree with the OP in that it is a little boring now that you don't have to constantly check in every few hours to get the required items from sending characters on tasks...
But to be honest, I am fine with the break. I don't mind rebuilding my bank account after spending money on Burns' mountain and the newest level's building. I don't mind just sending characters on 12 and 8 hour tasks. And since I left and had to beg for new neighbors I don't mind taking a look at their towns and seeing different ideas for decorating.
Lulls in action are meant for redecorating if you have enough of a nest egg for the next level or don't need money. And if they are like past years we will see something very shortly, even if it's just a short event.