That’s fair. I don’t appear to be able to edit or delete my post but I rescind my comments about this plugin. I gave WordPress too much credit in assuming it would normally store widget data in its own table. I guess it’s just another case of deplorable programming practices in the WordPress core.
I did try asking there as well, but got no response. This seems like more of a WordPress issue anyway, since there are multiple WordPress plugins that utilize it, not just BuddyPress. If anyone has any suggestions I’m still hoping for an answer.. Thanks!