The city of San Jose is considering raising the rates for garbage and recycling pickup services by 9 percent beginning July 1.

A public hearing on the increases is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on May 27 in city hall council chambers, 801 N. First St.

A 9 percent increase on a 32-gallon garbage cart for a single-family household would be an additional $1.40 per month, raising the rate from $15.40 to $16.80. A 9 percent increase will also be recommended for multifamily properties. If approved by the city council, the rate will go into effect July 1, 2003. If the council does not approve the increase, rates will remain the same. The city says that even with the rate increase, the total is still lower than the countywide average of $18.09 per month.

Anyone wishing to oppose the rate increases needs to submit a written protest prior to the council's May 27 meeting.

Mail or deliver written protests to City Clerk, 801 N. First St., San Jose, 95110 and include the assessor's parcel number for your property. To find out your parcel number, call the county tax assessor's office at 408.299.5500.