clckwrkOne would hope those who met with Valve are attempting to keep in touch and have an open line of communication, even via email, in which they could discuss everything TF2, from balance to aesthetics. However, whether it's Valve or the community members involved, it never seems like it happens. I'm going to give those involved the benefit of the doubt and say hopefully at least 1 person has discussed something with Valve.
While it isn't chatting daily to the TF2 team we are in contact with them and they do respond. Given the relatively slow turnaround of updates there usually isn't much to talk to them about.