Whose opposing views are we discussing? Those of a lot owner versus OPA, those of a lot owner versus CPI, those of a lot owner versus ECC? Those of a lot owner versus a neighbor?

I was thinking all of the above.  IMHO DR's are a contract and  when any two parties cannot agree on what the terms of a contract mean the the courts are the appropriate venue to resolve the dispute.  I also believe that every attempt at compromise should be exhausted first, because as you have so eloquently pointed out when you go to court you must be careful what you ask for, because there is no telling what you may get.

Do you have a copy of Eastern Shore Builders Association et al vs OPA?