She was elected mayor of Eugene, Oregon, in 2016,[4][5] and started her term in January 2017.

During her two terms as mayor she has been an advocate for the environment and addressing climate change and has helped to navigate Eugene's housing and homelessness crisis.

[6] Vinis was appointed to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Local Government Advisory Committee in 2021 and serves as Vice Chair.

[10] In September 2023, Vinis announced that she would not seek a third term as mayor, instead endorsing architect Kaarin Knudson.

She has worked for non-profit organizations in Eugene, including EarthShare of Oregon, Northwest Coalition for Alternatives to Pesticides, and ShelterCare.