A proposal aimed at boosting economic development in Greater Portland communities landed in a legislative committee last week.

The bill, presented to the Business, Research and Economic Development Committee by Rep. Jane Eberle, D-South Portland, would expand the charter of the Greater Portland Public Development Commission.

Formed post-World War II to promote redevelopment after the shipyards in South Portland closed, the commission is currently allowed to operate only within Portland and South Portland.

The bill, LD 1054, would allow the commission to also operate in Westbrook, Cape Elizabeth, Scarborough and Falmouth.

It would also allow the commission work with and to transfer funds to nonprofit organizations that share the commission’s goals. The Chamber of Commerce and Metro Regional Coalition are two organizations that have expressed interest in working with the GPPDC.

“This bill would make sure that the GPPDC is able to fulfill its original mission to benefit the region and state,” said Eberle. “We as a state are encouraging communities to work regionally and this is a great example of communities coming together.”

The Chamber of Commerce and economic development directors from South Portland and Westbrook testified in favor of the bill.