Dave,

I think the purpose described in the article is more suitable for such a registry than that for which it has been used in the past.  Better to use it to enhance the available information than to hide it, right?

Also, MERS has been used as an instrument to avoid paying recording fees.  That would not be a favorable option for a county recorder's office.  As the eternal optimist, I am hopeful that MERS is retooling to become a benefit, rather than a liability, to the real estate industry.