For the next 20 days, the conservative-leaning Pioneer Institute is teaming up with the nonpartisan Boston Municipal Research Bureau in releasing a series of papers on topics facing the city.

According to a joint press release issued Monday, questions for the four mayoral candidates include:

-- What should the Mayor's role be in supporting the MBTA, keeping it affordable for residents, and encouraging better service?

-- Boston has just 300 more jobs in 2009 than it did in 1990. What would you do to ensure that businesses and jobs are growing?

-- How will you manage spending for city employees, particularly health insurance and pension costs?

Jim Stergios, executive director of the institute, offered this preview in a statement: "Boston has seen an incredible renaissance these past 30 years. This election must consolidate the gains we've made and lay a foundation for the city's and region's future success. That means faster strides to improve our schools, public safety and fiscal management, and a broader business base that can create new jobs and attract new people to the City."

Their first paper is on PILOTs (payments in lieu of taxes).

If you get a chance, check out their frequently-updated blog, too.