The council meeting focused on various community and economic development initiatives, including the approval of consultancy contracts, discussions on shared services, and updates on digital infrastructure projects. The meeting was productive, with several key decisions made and plans for future actions laid out.

1. Approval of Consultancy Contract: The committee approved a £100,000 contract with Metro Dynamics and Inner Circle to develop the South Essex Economic Growth Action Plan. The decision was supported by the need for expert analysis to enhance economic development strategies. The implications include potentially more efficient project implementations and readiness for government funding opportunities.

2. Shared Services Discussion: There was a robust discussion about implementing shared services across South Essex councils. The focus was on identifying potential areas such as legal, HR, and emergency planning for shared services to improve efficiency and reduce costs. The decision to explore these areas further was driven by the need for increased resilience and cost-effectiveness in council operations.

3. Digital Infrastructure Update: The committee noted the progress on the South Essex full fibre digital infrastructure project. The project aims to enhance digital connectivity across the region, which is expected to support local businesses and improve public services. The discussion highlighted the importance of promoting this initiative to maximize its benefits to the community.

The meeting also highlighted the need for clear communication strategies to ensure that the benefits of these initiatives are well understood by the public.