Staten Islanders got their chance to gripe about the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's proposed transit fare and toll hikes and service cuts last night, and their message was clear: don't do it.

Critics of the MTA's plan to raise revenue waved flags, booed from their seats, and told stories of how they cannot afford to pay any more than they already do.

The plan could raise the toll on the Verrazano Bridge as high as $14, hike base fares on buses and trains, cut certain bus service on the island during the week, and eliminate service on some lines on the weekends.

"Whoever came up with this plan obviously didn't look at the routes, did not consult with people on Staten Island about the routes," said one straphanger. "Because you just can't leave people stranded. We've all come out not to ask for more transit options, just to keep what little we have."

Another meeting is set for tomorrow at the New York Marriott in Brooklyn.