Rebuilding will require unity

MALDEN - Local leaders called for unity and cooperation Tuesday in the "arduous" task of rebuilding the community in the wake of the Babb Fire.

More than 150 people turned out Tuesday afternoon for a post-fire planning meeting at the makeshift Town Hall on a grassy field next to Mayor Chris Ferrell's home. Whitman County commissioners, Mayor Ferrell, Town Council members, residents and volunteers attended.

Endicott pastor Fred Tribble led the discussion on recovering from the Babb Fire, which destroyed all but 21 of the town's homes.

Officials said they estimated 40%-60% of properties destroy...