Some of Campbell’s parks could see changes in the coming months and years.

At a Nov. 21 study session, the City Council mulled over what to do with the dozen parks it maintains and operates. Particular attention was paid to the eight parks that have play or exercise equipment.

“It’s been 12 to 19 years since five of the these parks were constructed or last renovated,” Fletcher Parsons, associate engineer, told the council.

Parsons added that age is not the only determining factor in equipment conditions: The level of use, materials, exposure to the elements and proximity to sand can play a role, he said.

An assessment conducted by a consultant for the city in 2014 suggested replacing the play areas at Jack Fischer, Campbell and Virginia parks. A portion of John D. Morgan Park’s equipment also needs replacing, according to the assessment.

The 2014 assessment also listed the adult exercise area by the Campbell Community Center as being in poor condition, while the bathroom facilities in Campbell Park were rated as “unacceptable.”

In July, Jack Fisher Park received new play structures. Other parks targeted for upgrades are expected to begin renovation next year once designs and costs are finalized.

While the city may not be able to add a new park to its current dozen, the council did suggest looking at ways to expand parks with play areas, such as adding all-inclusive play equipment.

“Given the limitation for acquisitions of new park land, the General Plan puts importance on the modernization of our facilities to ensure they are efficiently utilized and meet the evolving recreation demands of our community,” Parsons said.

The council also suggested carving out space for community gardens at parks.

“I’d love more community gardens,” Councilman Jeffrey Cristina said, adding that the gardens could be placed at smaller plots in the city if park space isn’t available. “This might be a really good opportunity to look at that and really utilize those properties.”

Mayor Liz Gibbons and Councilwoman Susan Landry asked staff for more information about building an all-inclusive play area that would be age-friendly for seniors and accessible to those with limited mobility. Councilmen Paul Resnikoff and Rich Waterman suggested staff look at adding picnicking areas.

Funding for park renovations, repairs and upgrades comes from the Parkland Fund, which collects developer fees in lieu of them dedicating open space in their project plans.

The council directed staff to explore more funding options for park projects.