KNIGHTDALE - This week, more than 11,000 Knightdale residents will open their mailboxes to find a blue-and-white flier from incumbent Mayor Russell Killen.

To most, it's merely a piece of paper, likely to be read and set aside.

But to Jun Lee, Killen's challenger in the Knightdale mayoral race, it bears a broken promise.

On the flyer, Town Councilman James Roberson is quoted praising Killen for his work as mayor.

"As Mayor, Russell has been a consistent supporter of programs that are critical to our community.

"Whether it is supporting programs for students on short-term suspension or actively promoting the African American Cultural Festival, we can count on Russell to push for what is in the best interest of all citizens in Knightdale," the quote from Roberson says.

Lee, Roberson's Democratic kin, in June donated $500 to support Roberson in his bid for reelection to town council.

Although Roberson and Killen have served on Town Council together since 2008, Roberson vowed not to endorse either candidate in the mayoral race.

Both candidates are his friends, Roberson says.

But Lee called Roberson's presence on Killen's campaign material "a disappointment."

"I consider James my friend, and I was hoping he would keep a neutral position. But I don't think he's doing that. To me, if (Roberson) gave him that promotional support, that's basically an endorsement."

Roberson's official endorsement would be useful for either candidate.

If Killen received his endorsement, the incumbent mayor could argue that his work as mayor was effective enough for Roberson, a Democrat, to break with party lines.

If Roberson officially endorsed Lee, Lee could argue that Roberson, someone who has worked with Mayor Killen the last four years, sees the need for change.

But Roberson, who has given $100 to Lee's campaign, says neither his pro-Killen quotes nor his $100 to Lee constitutes an endorsement.

The quote "shows I respect what Russell has done as our leader. But I have not and am not endorsing either of them," Roberson said, noting that "most voters want politicians to work across party lines."

Killen said he was unaware of Roberson's contributions to his opponent.

Killen and Roberson have not donated to each other's campaigns, they say.

"I didn't know (that Roberson had written a check to Lee)," Killen said. "But it doesn't bother me, I'm still confident that I'm the one he wants to see elected."

Andy Taylor, political expert at N.C. State University, says voters are likely to see it that way, too.

"In small-town, local elections, relationships are more important than the party lines," Taylor said.

"The general public is more likely to see a direct mail piece than scan through finance reports."