The Central Otago District Council was offered a cash settlement for repairs to the fire-damaged milk bar, but was waiting to see if the amount was more or less than quotes for repairs.
Damage to the building, caused by arson early last year, was estimated at more than $50,000.
Council property and facilities manager Mike Kerr said the repair quotes had been confirmed at ''a little over $50k'', which was less than the insurance company offer.
Due to the cost, council chief executive Leanne Mash was to make the decision, he said.
Ms Mash received repair quotes and a recommendation to select the cheapest option last week.
The council had not formally discussed the decision with the Maniototo Community Board, but wanted to get the building back to ''full condition'' as soon as possible, she said.
Because the repair option would cost less than the amount offered by insurers, there would be no cost to ratepayers.
''That's quite a good result, I suppose. Shame it's taken so long.''
Rural Art Deco Maniototo committee member Amie Pont said it was ''fantastic news''.
She hoped any balance between the repair cost and the insurance payout could go towards the interior of the building, which ''needed some work''.
She also hoped it could again become a small business hub for the town.
Mr Kerr said once a decision had been made,
a contractor would be contacted to discuss time frames for work.
The council would then announce the cost and the contractor.
