But this is a flaw or bug since, if I want the metronome off, I want it off.
The other thing is that, when it does come on, it requires me to hit the metronome symbol twice to turn it off.
😢
I tried again, and sadly, that is what is happening (version 2.0.2 on my iPad). Definitely a bug. I did not notice it in earlier versions.
You may want to send feedback to Apple to let the developers know. You can use this form: Apple - GarageBand IOS - Feedback
Or, if you have a developer account, use the Bug Reporter there.
Added:
The metronome switching the control bar has been introduced with GarageBand 2.0.2. Have you already updated to GarageBand 2.0.3? I have not tested with 2.0.3 on my iPad.