City Manager Todd Thompson says when he first came to the city seven months ago he noticed it had fewer holidays than most other cities. With the addition of Dr. King's birthday, Rock Island employees will have nine holidays each year.
"I think primarily the goal is to honor Dr. King and his contributions, as well as to give employees a day off to participate in events and reflect on the holiday."
The city will hold its official observance of the holiday on Monday morning at the King Center. The 40th annual memorial service and awards ceremony will begin at 10:30.
