PORTLAND, Oregon — The Portland City Council voted against a measure to halt homeless encampment sweeps during a contentious meeting, following a week of jabs between the Portland mayor and councilmembers who proposed the cuts.

Three hours of public testimony focused on the adverse effects of tent camping in the city on businesses and public health, emphasizing the need to protect children and parks from the presence of tents and drug use. Most urged the City Council to vote no.