PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) -- The Peoria City Council unanimously approved "a letter of intent" to build a $11 million amphitheater just south of the Riverplex.

The outdoor, 5,000-seat facility would be completely funded by the Hengst Foundation through donations. Their ask is that they get to design it, get a dollar for each ticket sold and to have it named after Dee Hengst, the late wife of Jim Hengst.

The 11-0 vote means City Hall will now move forward with discussions with the foundation. The letter of intent doesn't bind the city if they decide later that it's not for them.

"I think tonight is really a time for celebration," said 5th District Councilman Denis Cyr. "It's like a private and public partnership. That's the first time for me being here."

The venue would be located in Festival

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