A town hall meeting on the proposed Wal-Mart at 83rd and Stewart takes place Saturday and will feature chief proponent Ald. Howard Brookins (21st) along with Ald. Fredrenna Lyle (6th); Elce Redmond of the South Austin Community Coalition, which pushed unsuccessfully for a community benefits agreement for the West Side Wal-Mart; and Rev. Brook Vance of Southsiders Organized for Unity and Liberation.

SOUL is part of the Good Jobs Chicago Coalition, which recently proposed a standard for major retailers including living wage levels, health benefits, and workers rights.

Wal-Mart has reportedly been invited to send a representative, too.

It’s sponsored by the Greater Chatham Alliance along with other neighborhood groups, Saturday, November 7, 12 noon, at St. James Lutheran Church, 80th and Michigan.  Topics will include pros and cons of a new Wal-Mart, potential impact on neighboring businesses, and alternative economic development strategies.