Nursery connected to data center controversy pleads for 'respect' after boycott call

J&J Nursery in Layton, Utah, owned by State Senator Jerry Stevenson, is asking for respect after social media calls for a boycott. The controversy stems from Stevenson's role as a member of the Military Installation Development Authority (MIDA) board, which previously approved initial resolutions for a large 40,000-acre data center in Box Elder County. Daryl Lindsey, operating as Yardfarmer.co on Instagram, initiated the boycott of J&J Nursery, suggesting alternative shopping locations for residents. This action followed the Box Elder County Commission's unanimous approval of the data center project on Monday, despite significant anger from both county and state residents regarding the proposed development. In response to the boycott, J&J Nursery posted a message on social media, acknowledging the strong public feelings and concerns. The nursery requested that interactions with its over 200 employees remain respectful, emphasizing that its staff serves the community and deserves courtesy.