CAMPO, Calif. -- What began this summer as a series of temporary civilian patrols along the border in east San Diego County could become permanent, with at least one border watch group hoping to establish a long-term
address.

Real estate agents who work in the Campo area have received inquiries from people identifying themselves as part of a patrol group -- or calling on behalf of one -- looking to buy or rent property. One prospective benefactress is considering buying a property where border watchers could stay and train in exchange for maintenance.

"The Minutemen would be able to use it if they did work around the place," said Kathy Severin, 58, a self-described philanthropist who says she wants to help because she is "a staunch supporter of volunteerism."

Severin, who with her husband owns several properties in Chula Vista, traveled to Campo for a July patrol event held by the California Minutemen.

The group, led by former postal worker James Chase of Oceanside, has been conducting armed patrols in the area on and off since then.

Linda Chase, who participates in the patrols, said the main appeal of having a private place to sleep, camp and train is to be able to shake off protesters, along with the legal observers who monitor patrol groups for civil and human rights violations.