Thanks for your reply DB. That is correct, the pattern can be set by adjusting the H & V offsets, but this is the futzing around that I described as 'painstaking'. ;-)
I also agree that one could use a different pattern, and have actually done this approach for other projects, but unfortunately for this jurisdiction in particular, they specifically want the 'large X' used across the entire block and each block tagged with a letter in a box and finally provide a schedule.
As much as I hate comparing different software, I know other programs allow you to set the start point of a hatch pattern by use of a grip and maybe, hopefully, CA can take this suggestion as an improvement to fill patterns.
All great suggestions though, greatly appreciate it.