Recognizing Small Businesses That Power Our Communities

May is National and California Small Business Month. Approximately 4.1 million small businesses employ nearly half of California’s private-sector workforce, making their contributions essential to our economy. At Community West Bank, we value the vital role small businesses play in both our economy and communities every day. This quarter, we are proud to celebrate small business owners by featuring one of our valued clients, Bill Stoermer.

Bill has worn many hats throughout his entrepreneurial journey – from real estate investing and title services to operating hardware stores. Today, he owns two True Value Hardware stores with his business partner, Dan Hibler, in Stockton, California – each grounded in craftsmanship, customer service and local pride.

From Title Deeds to Tool Belts

After college, Bill joined Chicago Title Company of the Central Valley and ultimately became a part owner. He later transitioned to general contracting, remodeling homes in Stockton and building a portfolio of rental properties with his wife Wendy.

In 2003, after Bill and Dan purchased an 80,000-square-foot warehouse, they offered temporary space to a nearby Ace Hardware store, Fremont Plaza Hardware, that had suffered a fire. The arrangement became permanent when the store’s insurer rebuilt the business inside the warehouse. Eight years later, they took over operations of the store.

“It was the best thing we ever did,” Bill recalls.

Serving Stockton’s east side and industrial corridor, Fremont Plaza Hardware is a bustling destination with 20 employees. The warehouse also offers boat and RV storage. In 2021, Bill and Dan acquired nearby Country Club Hardware. Though smaller, with four employees, it shares the same dedication to service and trusted advice.

In 2022, both hardware locations transitioned from Ace to True Value, aligning with a model that supports family ownership and local autonomy. “We can’t always beat big-box prices,” Bill says, “but our service sets us apart.” Their staff are mentored and trained to solve problems, not just sell products. Bill is often on the store floor himself, sharing decades of construction knowledge.

Their banking relationship with Community West Bank, spanning more than 23 years, is equally personal. Bill, in particular, actively engages with the Stockton Banking Center team.

“We moved all our business banking to Community West Bank and haven’t looked back,” says Bill. “Time is everything in small business and I appreciate how quickly and efficiently things get done at our local Stockton Banking Center.”

Bill recalls a crucial time when the Bank came through for his business. “During the COVID pandemic, access to merchandise was limited forcing us to use new vendors to fill our shelves. These new vendors, required merchandise to be paid up front. The Bank knew us and understood our situation, and quickly approved a business line of credit, which meant our shelves could remain stocked and we were able to meet customer needs with minimal disruptions.”

Bill remains a strong Community West Bank advocate. “Working with a local community bank we can rely on – and refer to our customers – is imperative,” he says. “We sell chainsaws, power tools, and construction equipment that retails for thousands of dollars. Some of our customers prefer to finance large equipment purchases. Confidently referring the Bank is a win-win: our customers gain quick access to what they need and partner with a local bank we trust.”

At a recent Bank open house, a few friends and local business leaders joined Bill to meet the team – including the CEO. “Everyone walked away impressed,” he says.

“Clients like Bill Stoermer make us proud,” said James Kim, the Bank’s President and CEO. “Helping solve small business challenges and achieve financial goals is immensely satisfying, especially when we can partner with clients like Bill, who share our heart for investing in the community.”

Giving Back is Part of the Job

Bill’s impact goes far beyond his storefronts. He shares his commitment to giving back with his team and also serves on the board of Stockton’s Gospel Center Rescue Mission, supporting programs that help people rebuild their lives. Over the years, he’s hired more than 100 former inmates through rehabilitation programs – an effort that earned him California’s Small Business of the Year award. “If we don’t give them opportunities,” Bill says, “they’ll go back to what they know. This work is about providing hope.”

Bill remains committed to giving back. “I’ll always be involved,” he says. “Helping people is what it’s all about.”