expressions - Is there a polite way of saying "people like you"?

Can it be used in a polite sentence, or due to the associated
negativity with the phrase, would it be better to use an alternate
phrase?

The phrase can be used in a polite way, as determined by context. When saying something positive or favorable to someone, and identifying that person as an example of others who share the same quality, people like you is perfectly polite and even complimentary. So, I may say, "Thank you for your post. People like you, who ask worthwhile, well-phrased questions, make participation in ELU a meaningful experience." Of course, the context in which the phrase is spoken, tone of voice, facial expression, etc., also help to mark the phrase as either positive or negative. The phrase itself, I take to be neutral. Nevertheless, to lessen the possibility of it being taken negatively when not meant so, a positive qualifier can always be added: splendid people like you, excellent people like you, hard-working, thoughtful, generous, etc.