To answer your first question I believe that they talked to the FAA about having a non-perfect pass. That's why they had the tape installed. It's like when aircraft get sealed before launches the next day after preflight inspections. I believe the local FAA was on board for it but the pass still has to be evaluated by the headquarters of the FAA that's why it's presumably a good thing that Washington has all the documentation.
For your second question I'm not sure. I recommend calling Baltia when they open. I might try calling today but I live in Japan so it'll be hard for me since I'll have to wait until the early am to call.
But I believe they are trying their best. It doesn't help that individuals might be harassing the FAA.
Don't quote me on any of this though it's all "heresay" from forums. The best option is to always call Baltia and verify yourself.
The FAA in Washington DC will notify Baltia per Tony. Baltia does not have to keep calling them. Baltia is waiting for word. Baltia has a time frame, but they know it can be changed so it does not mean much. I did not ask Tony for the current time frame. I can't answer the rest of your questions. Maybe someone else can.