Sure, but you don't need to buy in an abusive HOA community.

I live in a "town" (Reston, VA) that has a notoriously strict HOA. But, it mostly applies to buying/selling and home additions. And it's very consistent. Each subdivision within Reston also has its own HOA that's run by the owners and in charge of regular community upkeep. It works out, as long as you perform due diligence up front and know what you're buying. I don't know anybody who would claim it was abusive or rent-seeking - just mildly annoying sometimes.

Though it could also be a case with a HOA, a government employee is much more likely to not give any fucks about local ordinances than the board of HOA, composed of people who are directly affected by violations.