MIAMI -- If Miami-Dade voters want to repeal the half-cent transit tax, they are going to have to do so by petition.

This week, the commission decided not to put it on the ballot, but at the same time admitted to what we feel was a multimillion-dollar bait-and-switch.

Here's the deal:

Back in 2002, the tax was presented to the public as a way to build mass transit for the 21st century. Instead, much of the money has simply gone to maintain the current system and to pay salaries.

We should point out that bus service has improved, but that's just a small fraction of what taxpayers voted for when they approved the half-cent tax.

To be sure, Miami-Dade needs a steadier source of funding for mass transit. We also need solid citizen oversight.

But we feel commissioners should present that to voters on the ballot.

That's our take on things. Let us know what you think.