You're looking at a variety of bikes that are really different. A Townie is a cruiser and any of the FX hybrids are more like road bikes. I'm hearing some wavering in what you are really looking for; is it a cruiser type bike that would be ok for riding with your kids or into town if it's flat or a bike you can ride for road rides for fitness and ride with your kids?
If you want to work on the climbing skills, get the FX or something else like it. I think you'd be frustrated with bikes that are more of the "comfort" variety.