Pavan Reveals Why He's Running

Pavan D. Patel, 33, is the founder and CEO of Willow Group Investments, managing director of Willow Equity and a franchisee of Tropical Smoothie Cafe.

He has lived in Cumberland County for 28 years and has also served on the Cumberland County Tourism Development Authority, Fayetteville Millennial Advisory Commission and Methodist University Foundation Board.

“I’m running because I believe in hard work and responsibility — not headlines or pats on the back,” Patel said. “For me, it’s about representing our community and making sure that the people of Cumberland County are heard. I’ve spent my life working to build something for my family and my community, and I understand the importance of fiscal responsibility, strong families, and common-sense leadership. I’m not here to dictate or seek attention — I’m here to get the job done.”

Patel said he’s spent years working and building relations in Cumberland County and is running to serve.

“I’ve seen firsthand how decisions at the county level affect all of us, and I believe we need leaders who are willing to roll up their sleeves and do the work, not just talk about it,” he said.

Patel said he believes at the end of the day, residents want the same thing, “a safe, thriving community where our kids can grow up and succeed.”

He said his background as a business owner and community leader has taught him the value of fiscal responsibility, accountability and hard work.

“I’ve been on the ground, working side by side with the people of this county, and I know how to bring people together to solve problems," he said.

He said the most important issue facing Cumberland County is ensuring it has a strong, sustainable foundation for future growth.

The core pillars of that foundation, he said, are fiscal responsibility, infrastructure and public services like schools and clean water.

“As a business owner and community leader, I understand the importance of making every dollar count," Patel said. "We need to invest in what matters most without overburdening taxpayers. This isn’t just about maintaining what we have, but about making smart decisions that prepare us for growth while protecting the resources we have today."