SHPO's list allows elderly to be targeted

But the state agency (SHPO) publicized on its website for all to see an alphabetized list of the names and addresses of the homeowners who signed and filed notarized objections.

SHPO's list of names violated the objectors' fundamental right to privacy and undoubtedly suppressed the objectors' count. Predictably, SHPO's list had a chilling effect on numerous homeowners who would have otherwise signed notarized objection statements. Moreover, SHPO's List paved the way for HD supporters to target at least 475 objectors via a mass mailing and an aggressive door-to-door canvassing campaign to pressure them to withdraw their objections.

 Elderly neighbors in particular were found to be vulnerable targets and susceptible to confrontation. Wilting under numerous phone calls and visits to their homes, a significant number of objections were withdrawn under the direction of the HD supporters. 

It is still undetermined how these objection withdrawals will be handled under the historic district rules.