L.A. Times Challenges Wal-Mart To 'Play The Good Guy'

The Los Angeles Times supports the city's ordinance that requires an analysis of economic impacts for new superstores and challenges Wal-Mart to use its clout for economic development.

1 minute read

August 17, 2004, 11:00 AM PDT

By Chris Steins @planetizen


"Another welcome consequence would be if the new law pushed Wal-Mart to tailor its stores to an area's needs. Los Angeles badly needs more mixed-use and infill development, not big boxes surrounded by acres of parking lots.

For instance, a regular-sized Wal-Mart moved in to anchor a half-abandoned shopping center in Baldwin Hills last year and now attracts enough customers to help the center's other retail tenants, not drive them out of business. Rather than fighting the new law, the company should seize the chance to play the good guy."

Thanks to Chris Steins

Monday, August 16, 2004 in The Los Angeles Times

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