Attorney ethics ordinance may be revived, By Terry McGahan WEST MILFORD There may yet be a future for an attorney ethics ordinance in West Milford despite its pending repeal. The township council approved a second reading to axe the ordinance which requires all hired town attorneys to place their ethical history on public record. At the meeting on Wednesday night, however, several of those who agree with the repeal gave an indication they may be willing to see a replacement come into existence. “We can revisit this,” said Councilman Phil Weisbecker, who led the process to remove the ordinance. Council President Joe Smolinski was scathing in his verdict of the current ordinance but offered hope to those who wish to see it retained. “There are so many holes in this ordinance you could drive a $50,000 lawsuit through it. We will construct a proper ordinance.” Weisbecker also responded to allegations by former councilman Andy Gargano who served on the council with Weisbecker when the ordinance was introduced, that he, Weisbecker, is seeking to hire cronies in attorney positions with questionable ethical histories. Weisbecker said, “As long as I’m here I’d want Fred to be our attorney.” Weisbecker was referring to current township attorney, Fred Semrau. Among the arguments for removing the ethics ruling is that West Milford is the only municipality in New Jersey to implement the law and that it made a lawsuit against the township possible which cost the town legal fees in the region of $48,000. There are those who would fiercely contest the accuracy of the latter argument. Two council members wish to see the ethics ordinance kept; one of those, Bob Nolan, responded to Smolinksi’s promise. Nolan said, “Why not then keep this ordinance until we come up with something better. You won’t have my support until you come up with something better.” James Warden, the other dissenter, said, “The only reason you guys can repeal this is if you have something to hide.” The vote was carried by a 4-2 majority. At the next regular meeting on March 28 the ordinance will be considered for final removal. In other news: A rally will be held in West Milford to send a message to Trenton. On Saturday, March 17, campaigners will stage an event to “Save the Highlands.” It will be held in front of town hall and will focus on removing the Planned Community Zones which are areas designated by the Highlands Council in town for possible future development. As the gathering takes place on St. Patrick’s Day, organizers are encouraging everyone to wear green. The rally will start at 11 a.m.