I've been a GSTL. Personally I think its better to be one in a high volume store because you aren't stretched to the limit trying to get everything done. However, the overall culture in ULV stores is so much better than high volume stores because of the teamwork necessary to accomplish everything. However, it sounds like you already enjoy your store.
Sounds like your store probably has at least 4 GSTLs and just as many GSAs. Depending on the volume of your store, you're likely to be the only GSTL or one of two (not including Sr.)
In lower volume stores the GSTL has to have a very good team of GSAs and lead them very well. Because honestly your GSAs are often just underpaid versions of you (minus the coaching etc.)
As for hours, I'm 99.99% sure that you'll get 40 regularly. Even when our sales floor TLs in a ULV were affected by hours cuts, the GSTL still got 40 because they were a crucial part of the team. Your GSAs, cashiers, etc will get cut looong before you do.