I didn't make that charge. The author (and others) gushing over Wal-mart and how they are bringing prosperity to the consumer prompted my response. I am offering an opposing view - that it has a price. And that price is not so obvious. If you're willing to pay that price . .fine.
My point is simply that I have not seen Walmart ruin my own community which was predicted by the hysterical naysayers. In fact, the only business that has been hurt at all is a poorly run national chain store. And many of the employees at that store have gotten jobs at Walmart because they are treated (and paid) better.
The mom and pop stores, and the other big box stores did not offer any higher wages, did not offer benefits and the community had to pay for the "hidden costs" with those businesses as well.
I guess my greater point, on which we may agree is that all businesses offer the community something and cost the community something. In our case the benefits have outweighed the costs.