A method begins by a storage unit receiving a read request for a decode threshold number of encoded data slices (EDSs) of a set of EDSs. The method continues with the first storage unit determining whether to service the read request for an EDS stored in the storage unit, and when determining not to service the request, generating, by the storage unit, a read request for a second storage unit, where the second storage unit is in substantially the same geographic location, and stores one or more EDS of the set of EDSs that is not included in the decode threshold number of EDSs. The storage unit then transmits the read request for the second SU, instructing the second SU to service the request.