I read exactly what you wrote. If you do as you say that sounds like cheating. Follow the rules, not just the letter, but the spirit! You are doing neither.
Then you are flat out wrong.
From the ACBL alert procedure:
Example: A 15-17 1NT opening bid is made. The partner of the bidder will say
aloud, “fifteen to seventeen.”
Given your stated inclusions of some 18 and even 19HCP hands, this feels VERY close to an intentional attempt to ...
I don't think the problem is really the size of the BOD. The problem is that they insist on meeting in person. Video chat is cheap or free and easily available.