I feel for you Steve. Had the same in January when I did my retirement extension. Four people checked my paperwork without comment. The fifth person asked for all sorts of additional information. Took me nine hours to finally get my extension.
I returned to Thailand in October and reported to Chaeng Wattana. I ask the specific question as to whether or not I’m required to register if I spend time out of my province. I was told NO, only report when returning from a trip outside Thailand.