A Niles City councilman says he will cover the cost for a religious organization wanting to use the Riverfront Park Amphitheater in Niles in September.

Scott Clark said during Monday’s regular meeting he would personally pay the $25 amphitheater application fee, the $100 rental fee and any electrical cost for Pax Christi (Peace of Christ).

Pax Christi will be using the amphitheater from 4 to 8 p.m. Sept. 21 to conduct an International Day of Peace. The group anticipates seven participants and 21 spectators.

The council was scheduled to vote on whether or not to waive the fees, but Clark changed the motion to reflect he would pay the fees. The council approved the motion unanimously. Several councilmembers thanked Clark for his offer.

Earlier in the meeting, two citizens said during public comment the city should not waive fees associated with using the Riverfront Park amphitheater. They said the usage fees could go toward other things, such as maintaining Niles parks.

City rules state no rental fee or security deposit will be charged for city-sponsored functions, parks and recreation board functions and school district functions. All other groups and/or individuals are supposed to be charged, according to the rule.